1st. Lt. Harold E. Goettler (July 21, 1890-1918) - One of only four Airmen to win the Medal of Honor in World War 1, Goettler was a 1st Lt. in the US Army Air Corps; 50th Aero Squadron. On October 6, 1918, Goettler and 2d Lt. Erwin R. Bleckley were on their second attempt to deliver supplies to a battalion of the 77th Division in France. "Having been subjected on the first trip to violent fire from the enemy, they attempted on the second trip to come still lower in order to get the packages even more precisely on the designated spot...the plane was brought down by enemy rifle and machine-gun fire from the ground, resulting in the instant death of Lt. Goettler. In attempting and performing this mission, he showed the highest possible contempt of personal danger, devotion to duty, courage and valor." - From Goettler's Medal of Honor Citation.

Abram Nicholas Pritzker (January 6, 1896-1986) - Abram was a successful businessman who started the Hyatt chain of hotels and whose other properties included Royal Caribbean and TransUnion. His many philanthropic acts included the establishment of the Pritzker School of Medicine at the University of Chicago, and the creation of the Pritzker Prize, the top prize in architecture.

Bruce DeMars (June 3, 1935-Present) - Admiral DeMars retired in 1996 after 43 years of service, during which he served as Director of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Exelon, a Fortune 500 company.

Adrian Zmed (March 4, 1954-present) - Zmed is best known for his role on T.J. Hooker opposite William Shatner. He has appeared in numerous movies, television shows, and on Broadway and off-Broadway.

Al Riley (1953 - ) - An urban planner and statistician by profession; Riley held executive positions in education, government, medical research and the private sector; B.A., Economic Geography/Secondary Education, Chicago State University; Masters, Urban Planning and Policy Analysis and Doctoral study in Economic Policy Analysis, University of Illinois at Chicago; Adjunct Professor, Business and Public Administration, Governors State University (1997-2007); Trustee, Village of Olympia Fields (1994-2005); Trustee, Rich Township (2005); Supervisor, Rich Township (2006-present), member, American Institute of Certified Planners; Executive Board, Calumet Council, Boy Scouts of America; Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra Board, U.S. Army Reserve (Psyops, Civil Affairs - 1972-1978).

Alderman Schulter (November 14, 1947 - present) is a graduate of Audubon and currently serves as the Alderman of the city's 47th ward. Alderman Schulter has been a strong supporter of many CPS schools, not only his alma mater, Audubon. Recently Alderman Schulter worked to provide Coonley with a large grant to refurbish its interior. He is known as an advocate for public schools and an Alderman who places great importance on the community's involvement in and support of our schools.

Amelia Earhart (July 24, 1897-present) - First woman to fly across the Atlantic (1928). First woman to fly solo across the Atlantic (1932). First woman to fly solo across the Pacific (California to Hawaii) and many other records. Earhart was celebrated around the world for her daring feats. She disappeared in 1937 while trying to become the first woman to fly around the world.

Ana Castillo - Castillo’s books include the novel, The Mixquiahuala Letters (Bilingual Review Press, 1986; Doubleday, 1992), for which she received the Before Columbia Foundation’s American Book Award in 1987.  Sapogonia (Bilingual Review Press, 1990), is a complex and engaging novel and a literary triumph, according to the renowned Chicano novelist Rudolfo Anaya who calls Castillo “one of our finest Chicana novelists.”  Her more recent books include the novel So Far From God (Norton, 1993), which earned her both the Carl Sandburg Literary Award in Fiction of 1993 and the Mountains and Plains Bookseller Award of 1994, and a work of non-fiction, Massacre of the Dreamers: Reflections on Mexican-Indian Women in the United States 500 Years After the Conquest (University of New Mexico, 1992). www.anacastillo.com

Andrew Davis (November 21, 1947-present) - Davis, son of Nathan Davis the actor, is a writer, director with several popular movies to his credit, including "The Fugitive" starring Harrison Ford (another CPS alum), "Under Seige", and "the Guardian." Davis is known for filming in Chicago and was nominated for a Golden Globe in

Andy (December 29, 1967 - present) and Larry (June 21, 1965 - present) - The Wachowski Brothers are the creative force behind the blockbuster Matrix film trilogy. Prior to working in the film industry, the Wachowski brothers wrote comic books for Marvel Comics. Their first breakout film was an indie feature called Bound. They also directed big screen version of Speed Racer.

Roosevelt High School grad 1968

An Emmy Award winner, Anna received the 205 Ethics Award in Journalism from the Chicago Headline Club. In 2008, she launched a news of the week review show on WTTW called "Rewind." For many years, Anna was the co-anchor of Chicago's NBC 5 newscast. In 2010, Anna joined Fox 32 in Chicago as a Contributing Anchor and Reporter.

Anna Langford (October 27, 1917-2008) - The first woman to serve on the Chicago City Council, Langford began her career as a typist for several state and federal agencies. Then in 1956, Langford graduated from the John Marshall Law School at Roosevelt University and began a new career as a civil rights lawyer. Langford was first elected to the city council in 1971 and served again from 1983-1991.

Annazette Collins - Former administrator for the Chicago school board, Collins has a bachelor's degree in sociology from Northern Illinois University, and an M.S. in criminal justice and further graduate work in counseling from Chicago State University. She previously served in the Department of Children and Family Services, in the Cook County probation department, and as a prison correctional officer. Her committee assignments include Committee of the Whole; Public Utilities (Chairperson); State Government Administration; Human Services; Judiciary II - Criminal Law (Vice-Chairperson); Appropriations-General Service; Adoption Reform; Juvenile Justice Reform (Chairperson).

Anne Kavanagh - A 20 year veteran of Fox News, Kavanagh's awards include Emmy's and the Peter Lisagor award. In addition to contributing frequently to national publications, Kavanagh currently reports for the morning and noon newscasts and special reports for the nine o' clock news.

Annette Rogers Kelly (October 22, 1913-2006) - Kelly won Gold in the 1932 and 1936 Olympics as part of the Track and Field 400 meter relay team.

Anthony McGill - McGill is the principal clarinetist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and former associate principal clarinet of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Highlights of McGill's career include winning the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant, studying at the Curtis Institute with Donald Montanato and at the Interlochen Arts Academy with Richard Hawkins, performing at the Marlboro Music Festival, Sarasota Festival, and the Opera Theatre and Music Festival of Menlo, Italy and appearing with with pianist Mitsuko Uchida and members of the Brentano Quartet, and in concert with cellist Yo-Yo Ma. McGill was a member of the quartet with Yo-Yo Ma, and Itzhak Perlman that played during President Obama's inauguration.  Listen to McGill play Debussy's Rhapsody No. 1. Brother of Demarre McGill.

Arlene Limas won a Gold Medal in Tae Kwon Do at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, Korea. A gifted musician, as she stood on the podium to accept her medal, she sang the United States national anthem without musical accompaniment due to an equipment failure. She holds a degree in political science from De Paul University and currently owns a martial arts school in the Washington, D.C. area.

Arthur Goldberg (August 8, 1908 - 1990) - President Kennedy's first appointed Goldberg Secretary of Labor and later to the U.S. Supreme Court. His time on the court was short because President Johnson asked him to serve as Ambassador to the United Nations. Goldberg, hoped for a reappointment to the court later in his career, but it never came. in 1977, President Carter made Goldberg United States Ambassador to the Belgrade Conference on Human Rights and awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1978. In 2008, it was revealed that Goldberg served as a spy in the Office of Strategic Services, a forerunner to the CIA, during World War II.

Arthur Weber (1926-2008) - Weber started one of the most popular and respected consumer magazines, Consumer Digest, from his home in 1959. By the mid 1990's, Consumers Digest circulation reached 1.5 million.

Barbara Bain (September 13, 1931-Present), born Millicent M. Fogel. As Barbara Bain she became the first actress to win 3 consecutive Emmy Awards. After graduating from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor's degree in Sociology, she moved to New York and worked as a fashion model. She studied dance with Martha Graham and acting with Lee Strasberg before heading to Los Angeles to star as Cinnamon Carter in the television series "Mission Impossible". In 1993 Barbara Bain founded BookPALS, a literacy program of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation, that brings professional actors into public schools to read aloud to students. The program currently operates in major cities such as Atlanta, Boston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.

Barbara Ferrell-Edmonson. (July 28, 1947 – present) Three years after graduating from Harrison High School Barbara Ferrell set a world record for the 100 meter dash that has yet to be broken: 11.10 seconds. She was a member of the gold medal-winning 4x100m relay team and also won the 100m silver medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. She is a member of the U.S. National Track and Field Hall of Fame. Barbara Ferrell-Edmonson taught elementary school in Los Angeles and is currently Head Coach of the University of Nevada at Las Vegas women's track and field/cross country program.

Barbara Minkus (August 15, 1943 - present) - Minkus has been a Broadway and off-Broadway darling since the start of her career and her New York credits include originating Lucy in the recording and off-Broadway production of You're A Goodman Charlie Brown and starring in The Education of Hyman Kaplan. Minkus is also a star of screen and television, she was a regular on Love American Style for six years and was a favorite guest on The Tonight Show and Merv Griffin Show. Most recently, Minkus has been performing all over the country in a variety roles, both on stage and in concert. She will be returning to off-broadway this summer in the musical Saturday Night at Grossingers.

Barton Moy – Appointed by Mayor Daley to serve as the Director of the Advisory Council on Asian Affairs for the Chicago Commission on Human Relations in 1989, Moy later joined the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) program where he currently serves as an Area Coordinator. Prior to serving the city, Moy worked at the Vietnamese Association of Illinois as the Coordinator for Economic Development and as an owner/operator of a Baskin Robbins franchise. Additionally, Moy has served or chaired on several boards including the Asian American Institute, James Jordan Foundation and the Board of the Chinese Mutual Aid Association. Moy’s honors include the Community Impact Award from the Chinese Mutual Aid Association and being named a Crain’s Chicago Business “40 under 40”. In 2000 Moy represented Illinois as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention.

Benny Goodman (May 30, 1909-1986) - Known as the King of Swing, Goodman was a clarinet player and the preeminent bandleader of his time. He led the first Jazz band to play Carnegie Hall, in what is now considered a landmark event in Jazz history.

Bernard Shaw (May 22, 1940-present) - CNN Anchor Emeritus, Shaw is one of the most respected and celebrated journalists of his era, and was a fixture of CNN's rise to prominence. He is best known for his live reports from Tiananmen Square in 1989 and Iraq at the start of the 1991 Gulf War, and as the host of CNN's Inside Politics and The World Today. Shaw received two Emmys, a Peabody Award, and in 2007 the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Association of Black Journalists.

Bernie Mac, born Bernard Jeffery McCollough (October 5, 1957-2008) - Mac started his career doing standup in Chicago. From 2001 to 2006, Mac had his own sitcom, The Bernie Mac Show, for which he received numerous awards and nominations: 4 Image Awards, 2 Emmy Nominations, 2 Golden Globe Nominations

Tafoya has been with WBBM Newsradio 780 since 1986. A general assignment reporter, Tafoya covers everything from education and politics (including Democratic National Conventions 1996, 2000 and 2008) to crime and religion. Tafoya’s work has been honored numerous times over the past 30-plus years. Among them: Best Reporter awards from the Associated Press and United Press International, Peter Lisagor Awards from the Chicago Headline Club, an Edward R. Murrow Award, and a Boyden Award from the Chicago Journalists Association.

Bill Campbell - Three time Emmy Award winner Bill Campbell is currently the host of "Chicagoing" a weekly Chicago showcase on ABC 7. From 1978 to 2000, Cambell served as the station's director of community services. Prior to his time a ABC 7, Campbell was director of communications for the Chicago Urban League and staff assistant/program specialist in the Office of the Mayor, City of Chicago. Campbell is a former William Benton Fellow in Broadcast Journalism and recipient of the Beautiful People Award from the Chicago Urban League, and the Peter Lisagor Award from the Chicago Headline Club/Society of Professional Journalists. Other honors include the 1984 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Award, Communications Excellence Award from the Cosmopolitan Chamber of Commerce and the 2000 Communications Leadership award from the Westside Branch NAACP. Campbell is a member of the Boards of Directors of the Evanston Community Foundation, the National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ)-Northern Illinois, and the Greater Chicago Food Depository, is a member of the Cultural Affairs Advisory Board for the City of Chicago and is a member of the Visiting Committee of the School of Social Service Administration of the University of Chicago.

Bill Gleason (1922-2010) - A legendary sports journalist, Gleason began his career at 19 as Sports Editor for the Southtown Economist. He wrote for most of his career for the Chicago Sun-Times. In 1975, he helped create a wildly popular radio program called The Sports Writers. This show was eventually turned into a TV show named, The Sports Writers on TV. In addition to his contributions as a sports writer, Gleason served in World War II and received the Silver Star, wrote three books, "Footsteps of a Giant", "The Liquid Cross of Skid Row," and "Daley of Chicago." His chariable work included founding the Red Cloud Athletic Fund, and working with Misericordia, Chicago Baseball Cancer Charities and Maryville Academy.

Bo Diddley (December 30, 1928-2008) - Diddley (legal name Ellas McDaniel) is considered one of the pioneers of Rock and Roll and his signature guitar sound and rhythm is one of the most influential and copied of all time. It was at Foster Elementary School that Diddley made his first musical instruments "including a violin, a bass fiddle and his first home-made guitar." [From Diddley Website].

Bob Berland (November 5, 1961 - present) - Berland won a silver medal for Judo in the 1984 Olympics only six weeks after nearly losing his leg. For his remarkable performance at the 1984 Olympics, Berland was named Black Belt Magazine Judoka of the Year and Olympian Magazine Player of the Year. He returned to the Olympics in 1988 as a competitor, and again as a coach in 2004 (helping the U.S. to a Bronze). He founded Olympic Futures in 1991, and is the president of Berland Printing. Berland has been a U.S. national team coach since 2001 and coached at the 2002 Pan American Games. He is currently a board member on the Chicago 2016 Olympic Bid Committee.

Bob Fosse (June 23, 1927-1987) - A legendary song and dance man, Fosse left his mark on Broadway and Hollywood with a style that continues to influence musical theater today. During his career, he earned 9 Tony Awards, 4 Drama Desk Awards, 3 Emmy Awards, an Oscar and the Palme d'Or.

Chicago Tribune Sports Writer and CLTV Commentator.

Bob Sirott -(August 9, 1949 - Present) A staple of Chicago broadcasting since 1966, (the year he began working as a page for NBC, while in high school) he worked as a page for NBC. Sirott currently hosts WGN Radio's Noon Show and co-hosts the WGN Sunday Night Radio Special with his wife Marianne Murciano. Along the way Sirott has alternated between radio and television, working for WBBM Radio, WLS Radio, WTTW TV, Fox TV, CBS, and most recently, NBC  Television. In addition to many local Emmys and a national Emmy, Sirott received the Peter Lisagor Award for his reporting on the death of John Lennon

Bobby Simmons (June 2, 1980-present) played college basketball at DePaul University until he was drafted to the NBA in 2001by the Seattle SuperSonics. He has played for Washington Wizards and the Detroit Pistons and Los Angeles Clippers. Simmons currently plays for the Milwaukee Bucks.

Burne Hogarth (1911-1996) - Founder, Cartoonists and Illustrators School, later the New York School of Visual Arts. Teacher/Author/Illustrator spanning a 60 year career. Society of Illustrators 2008 Distinguished Educator (Posthumous). Numerous International Exhibitions and Awards.

Burr Tillstrom (October 13, 1917-1985) - Creator of the Kukla, Fran and Ollie Show, which featured Tillstrom's puppets. The show entertained audiences for decades and won two Emmy's and a Peabody Award.

Cappie Pondexter (January 7, 1983 - Present) - Pondexter was named MVP of the 2007 WNBA Championships for her part in leading the Phoenix Mercuries to the title. In high school she was the first player to win back-to-back Miss Basketball titles in Illinois and at Rutgers she was named an All-American. In the Summer 2008 Olympics, Pondexter won Gold as part of the USA's Women's Basketball Team.

Founding member of the 1960 Rock band, 'The Buckinghams' , known as Chicago's response to the British Invasion of the 1960s. One of theirs hits, 'King of a Drag' reached #1 in 1966. Many of their other hit songs were a part of the soundtrack of our lives in the late 1960s. 'Susan', 'Don't You Care', 'Mercy, Mercy, Mercy', 'Hey Baby, They're Playing Our Song' and many others.

Carlos Sadovi - Sadovi is currently a Chicago Tribune reporter who also previously worked for the Chicago Sun-Times. Before returning to Chicago he worked at newspapers on the East Coast including the Christian Science Monitor for about 10 years. He attended Peterson Elementary School in the Hollywood Park Neighborhood before attending Lane Tech High School his freshman year. He attended and graduated from Von Steuben Metropolitan High School in 1981. He attended and graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and earned a Master's in Journalism from New York University. He lives in Chicago with his wife, Maura Sadovi, also a journalist, and their three children.

Carmel Bernon Harvey Jr. (October 6, 1946-1967) - Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). Vietnam, 1967, [from Harvey's Medal of Honor Citation] "Harvey distinguished himself as a fire team leader with Company B, during combat operations. Ordered to secure a downed helicopter, his platoon established a defensive perimeter around the aircraft, but shortly thereafter a large enemy force attacked the position from 3 sides. Sp4c. Harvey and 2 members of his squad were in a position directly in the path of the enemy onslaught, and their location received the brunt of the fire from an enemy machinegun. In short order, both of his companions were wounded, but Sp4c. Harvey covered this loss by increasing his deliberate rifle fire at the foe. The enemy machinegun seemed to concentrate on him and the bullets struck the ground all around his position. One round hit and armed a grenade attached to his belt. Quickly, he tried to remove the grenade but was unsuccessful. Realizing the danger to his comrades if he remained and despite the hail of enemy fire, he jumped to his feet, shouted a challenge at the enemy, and raced toward the deadly machinegun. He nearly reached the enemy position when the grenade on his belt exploded, mortally wounding Sp4c. Harvey, and stunning the enemy machinegun crew. His final act caused a pause in the enemy fire, and the wounded men were moved from the danger area. Sp4c. Harvey's dedication to duty, high sense of responsibility, and heroic actions inspired the others in his platoon to decisively beat back the enemy attack. His acts are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army."

Carole Simpson (December 7, 1940-present) - An Emmy Award winning journalist, Simpson is the former host of ABC's World News Tonight Sunday and host of numerous ABC news specials. Her list of awards includes the Joseph Medill Distinguished Journalism Award, Journalist of the Year in 1992 from the National Association of Black Journalists, and she was inducted into the Chicago Journalism Hall of Fame. Simpson serves on the board, and was a founding member of, the International Women's Media Foundation.

Cazzie Russell (1944-present) - Russell was the number 1 draft pick in the 1966 NBA Draft after an illustrious collegiate career at the University of Michigan where he played in two Final Four Championships, was a three time All-American and was named College Player of the Year. He played for 12 years in the NBA, including 5 seasons with the New York Knicks, winning an NBA Championship in 1970. After retiring from the NBA, Russell went into coaching, starting with the CBA before an extended relationship with the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Chaka Khan (March 23, 1953-Present) - Khan (born Yvette Marie Stevens) began her career as a member of Rufus, a popular 70's funk band. She won one of her eight Grammy's with the group, before moving on to a successful solo career. Her numerous collaborations include working with Herbie Hancock, a graduate of Hyde Park. www.chakakhan.com

Charles (Chuck) Smith (March 7, 1938 - Present), graduated January, 1956 from Parker High.He is the resident director of The Goodman Theatre in Chicago and an associate producer of Legacy Productions, a Chicago-based touring company. Goodman credits include the Chicago premiers Proof and The Story; The world premiers of By the Music of the Spheres and The Gift Horse; James Balswin's The Amen Corner,Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun; Peal Cleage's Blues for an Alabama Sky;August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom; the 1993-1995 productions of A Christmas Carol; Crumbs From the Table of Joy; Vivisections from a Blown Mind;and The Meeting. He served as dramaturg for the world-premiere production of August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean at the Goodman. He Directed Knock Me a Kiss at Victory Gardens Theater, where his directing credits include Master Harold and the Boys, Home, Dame Lorraine and Eden,for which he received a Jeff Award nomination for best direction. He won a Chicago Emmy Award as associate producter/theatrial director for the NBC teleplay Crime of Innocence and was theatrical diretor for the Emmy Award-winning Fast Break to Glory and the Emmy Award-nominated The Martin Luther King Suite.Mr. Smith is a 2003 inductee into the Chicago State University Gwendolyn Brooks Center's Literary Hall of Fame and a 2001 Chicago Tribune Chicagoan of the Year. He is the proud reciepient of the 1982 Paul Robeson Award and the 1997 Award of Merit presented by the Black Theater Alliance of Chicago. He is currently a board member of Sullivan House, the League of Chicago Theatres and the African American Arts Alliance of Chicago.

Charles Nicodemus (January 14, 1931 - 2008) - Nicodemus started his career at the City News Bureau and moved onto the Chicago Daily News, where he was known for his fierce style. When the Daily News Closed, Nicodemus moved to the Chicago Sun-Times. Nicodemus, who taught journalism at Roosevelt University, was honored with the Peter Lisagor Award, and induction into the Chicago Journalism Hall of Fame.

Chaz Hammelsmith Ebert - A former trial lawyer, Ebert is currently the Vice President of Ebert Productions and serves on the boards of After School Matters - a Chicago organization that provides out of school opportunities for students, Family Focus, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. More accostomed to working behind the scenes, Ebert has been more visible as late, hosting events like Ebertfest for her husband, film critic Roger Ebert and blogging from the Cannes Film Festival in a series of popular reports featured in the Chicago Sun-Times.

Cheryl Burton (December 25, 1962-present) - An Emmy Award winning journalist, Burton co-anchors two of the #1 rated newscasts in Chicago for ABC 7 News.

Chesterfield Commodore (August 22, 1914 - April 10, 2004), Editorial Cartoonist for The Chicago Defender for more than 50 years, received 12 Pulitzer Prize nominations.

Chris Zorich (March 13, 1969-present) - In addition to being a two time All-American linebacker at the University of Notre Dame, Zorich won the Lombardi award given annually to the best linebacker in college football. From 1991 to 1996 he played for the Chicago Bears, but he is probably best known for his foundation, the Christopher Zorich foundation that works with disadvantaged families.

Chuck Schaden (June 29, 1934) is a broadcaster/historian who has produced and hosted Those Were The Days since 1970 and has been nationally recognized for his efforts. He was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1993, the only radio fan to be so honored.A former newspaper editor and marketing executive, he turned his hobby into a vocation and draws from a collection of more than 50,000 vintage broadcasts to prepare his programs.He is the founding editor and publisher of the Nostalgia Digest; author of WBBM Radio: Yesterday and Today, a history of station WBBM, Chicago; and author of Speaking of Radio – Chuck Schaden’s conversations with the stars of the Golden Age of Radio, published by his Nostalgia Digest Press.From October, 2006 thru September, 2007 he hosted the nationally syndicated old-time-radio series When Radio Was, replacing Stan Freberg. The program was heard in more than 200 markets from coast-to-coast.A founding member of the Board of Directors of Chicago’s Museum of Broadcast Communications, he is the Midwest’s leading radio historian and a resource for public libraries, metropolitan daily and community newspapers, and colleges and universities throughout the country. He has provided archive materials to the Library of American Broadcasting at the University of Maryland and is an active member of the First Generation Radio Archives, an organization devoted to preserving radio's past.

Clayton Moore (September 14, 1914-1999) - Born Jack Carlton Moore, Clayton started show biz at a young age as a circus performer, even performing at the 1934 Worlds Fair.  After modeling and working as a stuntman for B movies, Moore donned the Lone Ranger mask when the show made the move from radio to television. He continued with the show for its entire run, save one year because of a contract dispute. Even after the show ended, Moore continued make appearances as the Lone Ranger saying "I will continue wearing the white hat and black mask until I ride up into the big ranch in the sky." Photo Credit: Clayton Moore as the Lone Ranger.” 1940s ca., Arcade card, #2002.203.2.1188, John Zeransky Collection, Dickinson Research Center, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, OK.

Cliff Kelley - Host of the Cliff Kelley Show on WVON Radio, Kelly first gained recognition as an outspoken and influential Chicago Alderman. In addition to his own program, Kelly is a much sought after guest for local media outlets like Chicago Tonight on Channel 11.

Clifford "Cliff" Aberson (August 28, 1921-1973) - Cliff played football with the Greenbay Packers in 1946 before joining the Chicago Cubs for three seasons 1947-1949.

Luis Gutierrez (December 10, 1953 - Present) Recognized Achievement: US Congressman CPS Schools Attended: Walter L. Newberry Academy.

Constance A. Howard - B.S. in liberal arts and M.S. in corrections and criminal justice, Chicago State University; Democratic State Central Committeewoman, First District, since 1984; alternate delegate, Democratic National Convention, 1984 and 1988; married (husband, Phillip, Jr.), has one son and five grandchildren.

Craig Robinson (October 25, 1971 - present) - 2007 was a breakout year for Robinson, he earned more screentime on NBC's hit comedy The Office and had a standout cameo in the movie Knocked Up.

Creadel "Red" Jones (September 26, 1940-1994) - Jones was one of the founding members of the Chi-Lites, famous for hits like "Oh Girl" and "Have You Seen Her."

Curtis Mayfield (June 3, 1942-1999) - One of only 13 musicians inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. He first entered in 1991 as a member of The Impressions and again in 1999 as a solo artist. In 1994 Mayfield was honored at the Grammys with the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizing his tremendous influence on decades of musicians. His album Superfly is widely credited with ushering in the rap and hip-hop movement.

Cynthia Soto - Administrative Supervisor in the Cook County State's Attorney's office, Child Support Enforcement Division. She was educated at Harper College. She is also a member of the board of the Near North Civic Committee.

Dan Jorndt (1941-Present) - As President (1990) then CEO of Walgreens 1998-2002, Jorndt helped guide Walgreens through 28 consecutive years of growth, including a 700% return for investors between the years 1991 and 2001.

In the USA, the name Dave Spector is generally unknown, but if you were to ask a citizen of Japan, they are very likely to identify him immediately as their favorite 'gaijin tarento' (foreign celebrity). He is well known on Japanese television, but also has had appearances on American television, including 'The Tonight Show' and 'Iron Chef'.

CHEF DAVID R. BLACKMON  

Chef David Blackmon's first love is the passion for cooking and the excitement in the kitchen. With 19 years of food service experience, and 12 years as a professional Chef, his food testimonials are bar-none. Chef Blackmon sharpened his skills working under top chefs in some of the finest restaurants around Chicago.

David’s career started with a family owned catering company where he was quickly promoted to on-site kitchen manager while attending high school. After graduating, he worked a year for a popular cruise line out of Miami. He put the love of his art on the “back burner” to work for a well-known Chicago newspaper upon receiving his BA in Speech Communications from Chicago State University. With a need to fill a hole in his food loving heart, David left his post at the paper to lend his culinary talents to various area restaurants and catering companies over the years.

Chef Blackmon’s culinary approach has a Southwestern, Italian, Southern, and Asian flair. He tries to incorporate these flavors into several of his dishes. Having a chance to work with so many different types of foods and ingredients that the city has to offer, David enjoys Chicago’s vast cultural and culinary differences, and tries to bring them all to a happy medium in each of his dishes. Never forgetting his family’s deep roots in soul food, David does updated dishes using some of the same soulful ingredients but with a healthy twist. He refers to it as “Neo Soul Food”. 

In 2004, David started his company Culinary Solutions as an umbrella to his future restaurant and personal chef endeavors. Until recent, David was the Executive Chef for Blu 47 Restaurant. Opened since fall of 2004, Blu 47 was a premiere restaurant in the Bronzeville/Hyde Park area on Chicago's South Side. Under David’s leadership, his dishes were recognized and featured in a variety of television and printed articles with high marks.  In 2007, Chef David’s Blu 47 booth was highlighted at the Taste of Chicago. Although it was the first time he participated in the Taste, Blu 47 was selected one of the best booths by food critics Phil Vettel and Monica Eng of the Chicago Tribune. Currently, David is working on bringing more innovative food ideas to the public and is looking forward to opening his own restaurant on the near south side of Chicago.

With the ability to feed and please the taste buds of so many people on a weekly basis, David feels that his culinary talent is truly a gift from God. To give thanks, he volunteers as a chef instructor with Near North Clinic and their program “Operation Front Line”. Through the Share our Strength (SOS) program, David enjoys teaching parents and children with diabetes, recipes and better eating habits through his live cooking and nutrition demonstrations. As a food columnist of “Chef D’s Kitchen”, David offers recipes and cooking tips found weekly in the pages of the Chicago Defender Newspaper. David is currently working on becoming a Certified Sommelier with a desire to bring more knowledge and appreciation of wine to the south side of Chicago. 

Chef Dave has worked as a mentor, career day guest speaker and culinary judge for several “Careers through Culinary Arts Programs” in the Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Over the years, he has enjoyed working with and employing dozens of CPS-culinary students. Currently David is the Career Cluster Manager of the Hospitality & Culinary Arts Program with CPS and the Department of College & Career Preparation. With the opportunity to help mold and groom future chefs, he is excited for the impact they will make on the restaurant scene in Chicago and worldwide.

During his down time, David enjoys spending it with his wife, Onshelle and their twin children, son David II and daughter Maya. He is currently working on his first cookbook entitled, “Food: The Great Equalizer”. David enjoys playing golf and is an avid SCUBA Diver. And yes, he does cook occasionally at home.

A 1945 graduate of Farragut High School and a 1955 graduate of the DePaul University College of Law, Cerda was appointed a Cook County magistrate in 1965 and an associate judge in 1966. He was appointed to the circuit court in 1972 and elected in 1976. Assigned to the Appellate Court in 1989, Justice Cerda was elected chair of the 1st District executive committee in 1996. He received a DePaul Law Alumni Service Award in 1997. The founding president of the Mexican American Lawyers Association and a charter member of its scholarship fund, Cerda was on hand for the merger that created the Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois in 1996. Its first president was his son, Chicago attorney David A. Cerda.

David Mamet (November 30, 1947-Present) - The winner of 3 Obie Awards, Mamet's play, Glengarry Glenn Ross won the Pulitzer for Drama in 1984. He is among the most influential dramatist working today, with Chicago being a common setting for many of his plays. Mamet has become a fixture on the Huffington Post, adding drawings and occasional commentary.

Dawn Turner Trice - Trice is a columnist for the Chicago Tribune. She is the moderator of the Tribune's online project, "Exploring Race," at www.chicagotribune.com/race. Trice has been a regular commentator for WTTW's "Chicago Tonight" show and has written commentary for National Public Radio's "Morning Edition" program. She is the author of two novels, Only Twice I've Wished for Heaven (Random House, 1997), which is being made into a movie, and An Eighth of August (Random House, 2000). She is the recipient of the 2008 Studs Terkel Media award, two Illinois Arts Council awards, an American Library Association Alex award and a 2006 National Endowment for the Arts fellowship. She lives outside Chicago with her husband of nearly 20 years---whom she met at Hyde Park Academy--- and their 14-year-old daughter.

Dean Richards is the entertainment reporter and critic for WGN-TV and a familiar voice on WGN Radio where he hosts "Dean Richards' Sunday Morning" and is the primary fill-in host for WGN Radio's other shows. Richards’ work has won him over 30 awards, including the Peter Lisagor Award for Outstanding Journalism, the Associated Press Best Feature of the Year, Illinois Broadcasters Association, UPI, Chicago A.I.R. Awards, and Promax International Promotion and Marketing awards. Additionally, Richards actively supports many health and social issues in his free time. The New York Times called him the "Tribune Company's Man of Many Hats."

Demarre McGill - McGill is the Principal Flute of the San Diego Symphony Orchestra and founding member of the chamber ensembel "Art of Elan." In addition to performing with the Chicago Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, The Florida Orchestra, Winston-Salem Symphony, Toledo Symphony, Milwaukee Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, and Harrisburg Symphony, in 2003 McGill won the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant. He has been featured on a PBS “Live From Lincoln Center” broadcast with the Chamber Music Society the A&E Network Series “The Gifted Ones,” and was special guest on the Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood television program. McGill's brother is Anthony McGill.

Dempsey Travis (February 25, 1920-2009) - As president and founder of the Travis Realty Company, Travis created one of the largest Black owned business in America. As an author and publisher, Travis has produced twenty best selling books on a variety of subjects, including: jazz, Chicago, the Civil Rights Movement, and real estate. In 1960, Travis was instrumental in organizing Martin Luther King Jr's civil rights march in Chicago and since has been a trustee for several organizations, including Northwestern Memorial Hospital, the Chicago Historical Society, and as president of the NAACP Chicago Chapter.

Dennis DeYoung (February 18, 1947 - present) - As a founding member and lead singer of Styx, DeYoung was the driving force behind their numerous multi-platinum albums and chart topping songs, including Babe, Lady, Come Sail Away, and Mr. Roboto. DeYoung went his own way in 1999 and has since released several solo albums and toured with a 50 piece orchestra. Most recently DeYoung has lent his talent to musical theatre, playing Pilate on Broadway and creating a new musical version of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Bailiwick Theatre in Chicago.

Dennis Wise - After 35 years of law enforcement, Wise authored "Honor Above All Else.....Removing the Veil of Secrecy,” which details his law enforcement career and brings to light the abuse of power and power of corruption within the agencies he worked for, and also details many personal and humorous stories accumulated throughout his career. Honors include serving as President of the American Federation of Police & Concerned Citizens, starting the 'Vests for Life' program, and receiving the J. Edgar Hoover Memorial Award for 'Distinguished Police Service. Wise's, writing, experiences and perspective have made him a sought after guest by many national news outlets.

Deon La velle Thomas (February 24, 1971- present) played for the Fighting Illini and, at the end of his career, was the all-time leading scorer in Illinois’ history. In 1994 he was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks but decided to never play in the NBA. He chose a career in professional basketball in Europe and Israel. Deon Thomas plays for PBC CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria.

Derrick Rose (October 4, 1988 - Present) - After taking his college team, the Memphis Tigers to NCAA Championships as a Freshman, Rose was selected #1 in the NBA draft by the Chicago Bulls. Rose attended Simeon High School, leading them to back-to-back state championships, the first for any Public League Team.

Deval Patrick (July 31, 1956-present) - Governor Patrick attended Harvard University and Law school and soon after graduation began his carrer as a law clerk then as a lawyer for the NAACP. His work there led him to Bill Clinton who appointed Patrick Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division in 1994. In later years Patrick worked in private practice and on behalf of several Fortune 100 companies like Coca Cola and United Airlines. Patrick became only the second African-American in U.S. History to be elected state governor when he easily won the Massachusetts race in 2006.

Dick Butkus (December 9, 1942-present) - Butkus is widely regarded as one of the best football players ever. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983. Considered by many the greatest linebacker ever, the Dick Butkus Award is given annually to the best college linebacker. www.thebutkusaward.com. Recently, Butkus has been more involved in the handling of the award, making sure any proceeds from the event go to charity. His own charity, the Butkus Foundation, is devoted to educating teen athletes about the dangers of steroids and performance-enhancing drugs.

Dinah Washington (August 29, 1924-1963) - Born Ruth Lee Jones, Washington is a towering figure in music and was known as the Queen of the Blues. Washington enjoyed much success during her short career, however, her legacy remains the influence she has had on the legions of artists who have come since.

Don Cornelius (September 27, 1936-Present) - After originally airing in Chicago in 1970, Soul Train went on to become one of televisions most influential shows and has enjoyed one of television's longest runs with over 1100 episodes. Cornelius served as host of the show until 1993 and continues today as the show's producer.

Don Hayner - Don Hayner is editor in chief of the Chicago Sun-Times. At the Sun-Times Hayner worked as a general assignment reporter, a personal finance writer, a neighborhood beat reporter and a Sunday features writer. He later became the city editor, metro editor and then managing editor. For five years he co-hosted —with Tom McNamee--a Saturday morning talk radio show for WLS (890AM) in the 1990s. He also co-authored three books with Tom McNamee: Streetwise Chicago, A History of Chicago Street Names; The Metro Chicago Almanac; and the Stadium: 1929-1994, The Official Commemorative History of the Chicago Stadium. Hayner is a graduate of Ripon College and John Marshall Law School.

Don Myrick (1948-1993) - As a member of the original horn section for Earth, Wind and Fire, Myrick won a Grammy for Best R&B Instrumental.

Dorothy Gaters – The winningest high school basketball coach in IL state history, Gaters has served as the head girls basketball coach at Marshall since 1976. Her overall record is 900-126 with eight state championships and a pair of runner-up finishes. She was Illinois Coach of the Year eight times and is a member of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. In addition to coaching 18 high school All-Americans and three Ms. Illinois Basketball Players, Gaters has coached in the U.S. Olympic Festival and the 1992 WBCA Girls High School All-American Game. Five of her players went on to the WNBA. She recently was awarded the Morgan Wootten Award which is presented annually to a high school basketball coach for lifetime achievement by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Dorothy Tucker - A nine time Emmy award winner, Tucker has been a reporter for CBS 2 Chicago since 1984. Her long career has included stops in Pittsburgh, Denver, Memphis, and Peoria. Tucker has been honored by the Chicago Association of Black Journalists for Outstanding Television Reporting (1994 and 87) and has received a national UPI Spot News Award. She is on the board of NABJ-Chicago (National Association of Black Journalists) and is currently a member of Northwestern University's Council of One Hundred.

Dr. Arthur D.Griffin (1929 - 2008)- Dr. Griffin was Pastor Emeritus of the National Historic Landmark First Baptist Congregational Church of Chicago where he served as Pastor for 46 years. He served as President or Chairman for numerous organizations including: the Chicago Baptist Institute, Chicago NAACP, Westside Federation, Interfaith Organizing Project, the Chicago Conference on Religion and Race, Chicago Opportunities Industrialization Center, Illinois Baptist State Convention, Bethany Hospital, and the Midwest Community Council. A lifelong learner, Dr. Griffin earned doctorates in Music, Theology, Humanities, and Divinity. He was a Fellow in the American College of Theologians, President of the Chicago Bible Society, and his book By Your Traditions provides staunch support of women in the ministry. In the 60's, Dr. Griffin was aligned with civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. Barbara Syndey Stein was considered one of the world's leading feline practitioners and served as president of the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and was the American Animal Hospital Association's (AAHA) practitioner of the year. In addition to fielding calls from around the world on feline care, Dr. Stein was a consultant to the Brookfield and Lincoln Park Zoos. The Chicago Cat Clinic was founded by Dr. Stein in 1975.

Dr. James C. Griggs Jr. (1930-2008) - Griggs, a lifelong Chicagoan, climbed the academic ladder to the presidency of Malcolm X College. Along the way he received his bachelor's degree from Roosevelt College, a masters degree from Chicago State University, a law degree from DePaul University and a PhD in education from Southern Illinois University. He is remembered for his tireless work in getting low achieving students motivated and into college.

(Dr.) Jerry J. Field - A veteran Chicago journalist, Fields career highlights include Chicago Sun-Times, copy boy 1954-1956, and several return assignments with Herman Kogan(features) Lou Spear (Circulation)and Mel Barker (Promotion) and many years with Irv Kupcinet Productions. Nine years with WFLD-TV when the Sun-Times owned the station.(1965-1974). Lerner Newspapers, Radio TV Columnist.(1974-1998) Former president Chicago Press Club, (1985) and co-founder of Chicago Journalist Hall of Fame (1985)and co-founder of the International Press Club of Chicago. Present Director Professional Learning-Special Programs at the Center for Professional Development and Adj. Professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology, Industrial Management and Technology department.(1998 to present) And a Korean Veteran and currently a senior staff member of the National Student Veterans Association, and member of the Mayor Veterans Affairs Council.

Julius B. Richmond (September 26, 1916-2008) - Appointed Surgeon General by President Jimmy Carter in 1977, Richmond is best remembered for starting Project Head Start in 1965 and serving as its first director. As a pediatrician, Richmond was influenced by the Brown vs. Board of Education ruling to try and counter the affects of poverty on the development of children. Richmond was also one of the major influences behind the warning label on cigarettes. Among his many honors, Richmond served as the John D. MacArthur Professor of Health Policy Emeritus at Harvard University.

Dr. Susan Solomon (January 19, 1956-present) - As the lead scientist of NOAA's 1986 emergency expedition to Antarctica to study the hole in the Ozone layer, Dr. Solomon was instrumental in identifying and helping to educate the world about the dangers of CFC's to the earth's atmosphere. Solomon's love for science took off in high school when she took third place in a national science fair and was nurtured at the Illinois Institute of Technology (I.I.T.). She won the National Medal of Science in 1999 and was part of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize winning team. Solomon is currently head of the Chemistry and Climate Processes Group of the NOAA Chemical Sciences Division.

Eddie Schwartz (May 5, 1946 –2009) - Schwartz was a popular radio host in Chicago for 25 years. He worked at WIND, WGN, and WLUP over the years and was known for his love of the city. His annual food drive "The Good Neighbor Food Drive" was a popular event that raised hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. 

Eddie Thomas (November 5, 1931-present) - Thomas got his start in the music business as the manager of the Impressions and quickly started his own record label Curtom Records with another CPS alum Curtis Mayfield. From there, Thomas branched into record promotions creating Thomas Associates and worked with many of music's biggest names, Ray Charles, Quincy Jones, and Barry White. He won a Peabody Award for the Rise and Fall of Vee-Jay Records. In addition to music, Thomas is an award-winning poet.

Edgar Bergen (February 16, 1903-1978) - Edgar Bergen was a ventriloquist and one of the most popular entertainers of his day, as evidenced by his successful radio program. His honors include an Academy Award, a Peabody award, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He is the father of actress Candice Bergen.

Edgar Rice Burroughs (September 1, 1875-1950) - Burroughs, author and creator of Tarzan - one of the most celebrated characters of all time, did not begin his writing career until the age of 35. During his prolific forty-year career, Burroughs published at least one book every year, save one. In addition to Tarzan, Burroughs created the popular and influential series John Carter of Mars, and The Land That Time Forgot. Burroughs was the oldest war correspondent of World War II and the town of Tarzana, CA is named after his ranch. [Johnny Weismuller, also an alum of CPS, played Tarzan in several movies.]

Edward Gardner (February 25, 1925-present) - In 1964 Gardner and his wife, Bettiann, started Soft Sheen Products in their basement and grew it into a multi-million dollar business that was eventually purchased in 1998 by L'Oreal of Paris. Gardner worked for the Chicago Public Schools between 1945-1964 as a teacher and assistant principal. Gardner is an active community leader and is owner of the Chicago landmark, the New Regal Theatre.

Eldee Young (January 7, 1936-2007) - Young was one third of the Ramsey Lewis Trio, with whom he won two Grammy Awards. One of the best and most sought after jazz bassists, Young had an distinguished career after the Trio split up playing with fellow Lewis Trio alum, Isaac Holt, in Young-Holt Unlimited, as well as, playing with music legends Dinah Washington, Dizzy Gillespie and others.

Eli Grba (August 9, 1934 - Present) Eli graduated from Bowen and went on to pitch in the 1960 World Series as a member of the New York Yankees. The first player to be selected in the expansion draft.  Went on to play for the Los Angeles Angels.  Coached for the Phillies in their minor leagues.

Eliot Ness (April 19, 1903-1957) - As leader of the Untouchables, Ness helped to take down Chicago crime boss, Al Capone.

Ella Jenkins (August 6, 1924-present) - A legendary performer in the world of folk music, Ms. Jenkins specializes in children's music. In 2004, Jenkins was honored with the Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement, and again in 2005 for best Children's Album. In the last fifty years, Jenkins has recorded over 30 albums and performed around the world. She has performed frequently on Children's programs like Sesame Street, Mister Rogers Neighborhood, and Barney and Friends.

Ellis Cose (February 20, 1951-present) -Cose began his professional career at the age 19 as "...the youngest editorial page columnist ever employed by a major Chicago daily." [from Cose's Newsweek bio] and is currently a contributing editor for Newsweek Magazine. He was the managing editor of the New York Daily News and has authored several books on race in America. In 2004 Cose was named the first recipient of the newly inaugurated annual Vision Award from the Maynard Institute for Journalism Education. In 2006 he won a Unity award for commentary and also shared in a first place award from the Society of Professional Journalists.

Emilie Kaim has been teaching first grade in the Regional Gifted Program at A.G. Bell Elementary School for over fifteen years. She has guided hundreds of students on the road to academic success. Many of her students are attending or have attended some of the finest high schools and post secondary institutions in the United States. Ms. Kaim is an exceptional teacher.

Ernie Terrell (April 4, 1939-Present) - Terrell's time as the World Boxing Association's Heavyweight Champion was marked by controversy, having won the title after Muhammad Ali was stripped of it in 1965. He held the title until 1967 when Ali won it back in one of the most infamous boxing matches of all time. Terrell also had much success as a record producer and singer.

Before her appointment and subsequent election to represent the 6th District, Golar worked as a civilian employee of the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy and was board secretary of the Neighborhood Housing Services for nine years. Golar received a Back of the Yards Neighborhood Leadership Award and is a member of Trinity United Church of Christ.

Ethan Stoller - Stoller is a frequent collaborator with the Wachowski brothers, Andy and Larry, having scored several of their short films, as well as the Chicago Bulls player intro video and the upcoming movie Speed Racer. Stoller is also a sought after music producer and music scorer for commercials.

Ehtel L. Payne (August 14, 1911 -1991) - The "First Lady of the Black Press", Payne was the first female African-American to receive accreditation as a White House correspondent and the first to serve as a commentator for a national network. CBS hired her in 1972 after Payne distinguished herself as a journalist for the Chicago Defender. Most notably, Payne is remembered for her coverage of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War and and Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger's, tour of Africa. In 2002, Payne was selected as one of four journalists to be featured on a U.S. Stamp series - Women in Journalism. Payne's many accolades include: Chicago Council on Foreign Relations, World Understanding Award, 1956; Newsman's Newsman award, 1954, 1967; honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, 1973; Fisk University, first recipient of Ida B. Wells Distinguished Journalism Chair, 1973; National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Club, named "Woman of Action" for achievement in journalism, 1980; Johnson's Publishing Company, Gertrude Johnson-Williams Award, 1982; Coalition of 100 Women, Candace Award, 1988; Hampton University, Kappa Tau Alpha award, 1990.

Eugene Record (born on December 23, 1940-2005) - Record was one of the leading creative forces behind the Chi-Lites and their hits "Oh Girl" and "Have You Seen Her". In strange twist of fate, Record would not earn a Grammy until 2004 when Beyonce used his song "Are You My Woman" in her song "Crazy In Love."

Felicia Dechter - Dechter writes an award-winning, weekly column focusing on the people, places, and happenings for the Chicago Journal/Skyline, as well as, weekly features and news stories. She is also a real estate columnist and former staff writer for Pioneer Press/Sun-Times.

Felicia P Fields - Nominated for a Tony Award for her portrayal of Sofia in the Broadway production of The Color Purple, Fields has long been a favorite of Chicago theater audiences. Fields, a Jeff Award winner, has been nominated for 7 Jeff's and starred in productions throughout Chicago. In addition to film and television work, Fields is featured on the Second City Diva's CD.

Finley Peter Dunne (july 10, 1867 - 1936) - Best known as the author of the Mr. Dooley articles, Dunne enjoyed wide popularity for his syndicated piece that covered days events through the eyes of a South Side Chicago Irishman. His career included stops at the Chicago Telegram, Chicago News, Chicago Times, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Herald, Chicago Journal and the Chicago Post. His first collection of Dooley articles entitled Mr. Dooley in Peace and War was a bestseller. Seven more editions would follow. His sister, Amelia Dunne Hookway was a nationally known educator with CPS for whom the Hookway school was named.

Frank M. Clark (September 3, 1945-present) - Clark is currently the chairman and CEO of ComEd, a company he started in the mailroom with in 1966. He sits on the board or is a trustee of many institutions including: The Chicago Community Trust, DePaul University, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, The University of Chicago Hospitals and Health System, and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum among others. Clark is one of the founders and namesakes of the Rowe-Clark Math and Science Academy, a Chicago Public High School.

Frankie Laine (March 30, 1913-2007) - Born Francesco Paolo LoVecchio, Laine's musical career spanned 70 years and included 70 charted records, 21 of which went Gold. He sold over 250 million albums and topped the U.S. Billboard charts several times.

Franklin P. Adams (November 15, 1881 - 1960) – Adams (FPA to his readers) first published poems in the Chicago Journal, then in 1903 became a columnist for the Chicago Tribune. He moved to New York shortly after and worked for several papers, including: the New York Evening Mail, New York Tribune, New York World, and New York Post. His popular column was called The Conning Tower. FPA was also a regular on the radio show “Information Please.”

Fred Holstein (December 9, 1942-2004) - Holstein's music never really made it outside of Chicago; however, to Chicagoans and Folk musicians alike, Holstein for many decades represented the best of Folk music. Over the years, Holstein not only performed around Chicago, he mentored upcoming musicians like John Prine, Steve Goodman and many others through his own bars and clubs and through the Old Town School of Folk Music, an institution to which he became inextricably linked. If his importance and contribution to the people of the Chicago was ever in doubt, his passing in 2004 and the outpouring of affection that followed proved his worth.

Fred Marsh (February 5, 1924-2006) - Marsh was an American infielder in Major League Baseball who played from 1949 to 1956 for the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Browns, Washington Senators, Chicago White Sox and Baltimore Orioles, primarily as a third baseman. Born in Valley Falls, Kansas, Marsh was signed originally by the Chicago Cubs in 1942 after graduating from Chicago's Steinmetz High School in 1941. Marsh joined the Navy during World War II and was discharged in 1945. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Marsh

Freddy Rodriguez (January 17, 1975 -present) - A rising star in Hollywood, Rodriguez first gained wide spread notoriety as a cast member of HBO's hit series Six Feet Under. His film and television credits include, A Walk in the Clouds, Dead Presidents, Ugly Betty and Humboldt Park (currently filming). Rodriguez has been nominated for an Emmy and has won several Imagen and SAG awards.

Frederick "Fritz" Pollard, Jr. (February 18, 1915-2003) - Son of the legendary Fritz Pollard, Sr. (also on the CPS Honor Roll) the younger Pollard made his name in track and won bronz medal in the 1936 Olympics in the 110 meter hurdles.

Fritz Pollard (January 27, 1894-1986) - Pollard was one of the first two African-Americans to play in the NFL and the first African-American to coach in the NFL. As a player he led his team to the championship (before it was called the Superbowl) and after a long coaching career, he was inducted into both the College Football and the Pro Football Halls of Fame.

Gary Comer (December 10, 1927-2006) - Comer made his fortunes as the Founder and CEO of Lands' End, however, it's his work as a philanthropist that may be his lasting legacy. Comer donated over $40 million to the Revere School community, including 30 million for the Gary Comer Youth Center.

Gene Ammons (April 14, 1925-1974) - Ammons was the son of Jazz pianist Albert Ammons. He grew up playing around the country with his father and went on to accompany many legendary musicians including Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, and Miles Davis. He is remembered for his unique sound and the ease with which he switched styles.

Gene Chandler (July 6, 1937 - present). Born Eugene Dixon, he began his career as a professional singer while attending Englewood High School. Although he recorded many songs, he is best known for his 1962 #1 Hit, The Duke of Earl. He received the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 2002 and still performs around the world.

Gene Siskel (January 26, 1946-1999) - As one half of the movie critic duo, Siskel and Ebert, and as movie reviewer for the Chicago Tribune, Gene Siskel was one of the most influential critics in the world. The Film Center in Chicago, one of his passions, was renamed the Gene Siskel Film Center in his memory. Together with Roger Ebert, Siskel earned 1 Emmy and 6 Emmy nominations.

George E. Johnson (June 12, 1927-Present) - In 1971, Johnson Products (make of beauty products) became the first minority owned business to be listed on the American Stock Exchange. Johnson has since dedicated himself to civic leadership, working with organizations like Junior Achievement of Chicago, the Chicago Urban League, the Lyric Opera, Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Operation PUSH. He received Ebony magazine's 1978 American Black Achievement Award, and the 1979 public service award from the Harvard Club for the work of his foundations.

George Furth (December 14, 1932-2008) - Born George Schweinfurth, Furth began his career as an actor but quickly gained fame as a playwright. He won a Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for writing the book for the hit musical Company. Furth's film career included roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Blazing Saddles, and Oh, God!. Furth was also a frequent guest star on some of the most popular television shows of his day, including Happy Days, I Dream of Jeanie, Green Acres, L.A. Law and Murder She Wrote.

George Gobel, (May 20, 1919 - 1991) Graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1937. Mr. Gobel (also known by fans as "Lonesome George") was one of the biggest comedy stars of the 1950's. He was best known as the host of his own weekly NBC television show, The George Gobel Show, from 1954 to 1960 for which he won an Emmy in 1954.

George S. Halas (February 2, 1895-1983) - Halas is the legendary football player and coach of the Chicago Bears who in addition to helping form the NFL, lead the Chicago Bears to eight NFL Championships (now called the Superbowl) as an owner/coach. He was a charter member of the NFL Hall of Fame and the NFC Championship trophy is name in his honor.

George Wilson (May 9, 1942-Present) - Wilson was a member of the Olympic Team that won the Gold Medal in Basketball. He went on to play 7 seasons in the NBA, including a short time with the Chicago Bulls.

Georgie Anne Geyer (April 2, 1935 – present) – Geyer is one of the leading foreign journalists of her time. Over her storied career, her major interviews have included Yasser Arafat, the Ayatollah Khomeini, Saddam Hussein, Fidel Castro, Hugo Chavez, and American Presidents Carter, Ford, Reagan, and both Bushes. In addition to her internationally syndicated column, Geyer has authored several books including a biography of Fidel Castro, "Guerilla Prince", "Americans No More: The Death of Citizenship,” and "When Cats Reigned Like Kings: On the Trail of the Sacred Cats." Her autobiography, "Buying the Night Flight: The Autobiography of a Woman Foreign Correspondent," is now in its fourth printing. Geyer, who speaks five languages, started her career at the Southtown Economist and Chicago Daily News. She is the recipient of the "Outstanding Illinoisan" award given at the Illinois inaugural ball and was awarded the Stewart Alsop award from the Association of Former Intelligence Officers. She has received 21 Honorary Degrees from universities and colleges, including Northwestern University.

Gloria Swanson (1899 - 1983) - Nominated for the Academy Award three times, Swanson was a Golden Globe winner and prototypical movie star. She began her career as a silent film star before making the transition to talkies. She is best remembered for her turn as Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard. Her career started in Chicago at Essanay Studios, where she worked with Charlie Chaplin. During her career, she collaborated with many of films most respected names including, Cecil B. DeMille, Rudolph Valentino, and Bobby Vernon. Swanson has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame - one for movies and the other for television.

Gwendolyn Brooks (June 7, 1917-2000) - In 1950 Brooks won the first Pulitzer Prize ever awarded to an African-American woman for her book of poetry Annie Allen. Brooks served as Poet Laureate of Illinois in 1968 and was awarded a special National Book Award in 1994.

Howard Robert Horvitz (May 8, 1947 - present) - Horvitz shared the 2002 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries concerning 'genetic regulation of organ development and programmed cell death.' He is currently Professor of Biology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a member of the McGovern Institute for Brain Research.

Hal Bruno - Bruno served as the Political Director of ABC News for 19 years and spent 18 years with Newsweek, before that, serving as a reporter, foreign correspondent, bureau chief, News Editor and Chief Political Correspondent. His early career included stops at the Chicago City News Bureau and Chicago American. Bruno's honors include the Illini Achievement Award from the University of Illinois, the Lowell Thomas Award for Public Speaking by the International Platform Association, and Press Veteran of the Year by the Chicago Press Veterans Association. Active in the firefighting community, Bruno has written extensively about fire safety and is a director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the Chevy Chase (Maryland) Fire Department. He was named Fire Service Person of the Year by the Congressional Fire Services Institute and received the President’s Award from the International Association of Fire Chiefs. Currently, Bruno is the political analyst for Politics.com.

Harold Lee Rush - Rush has worked in radio, television, theatre and as an educator for over 25 years. His extensive resume includes working as an executive producer and co-host at WGCI AM/FM Radio, serving as morning show host at WLNR FM radio and announcer for “Ebony-Jet Showcase” TV show for the Johnson Publishing Company. He hosted shows for WVON radio, CAN-TV (“Rush Street” and “One Step Closer To The Top”, which featured youth talent). He toured nationally with the Robin Hood Players Professional Theatre Company and appeared in the first Black-produced dramatic TV series in the U.S., "Bird of the Iron Feather” on Chicago’s Public Television Station WTTW. His community service has been honored by Outstanding Young Men of America, UNCF, Malcolm X College, Chicago Board of Education, The Chicago Police Department “We Care” Role Model Program, and Xi Nu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Harold returned to Chicago, after time in Atlanta as program manager at WIGO Radio, to help market The Bronzeville Press’ release of ‘KINGS: The True Story of Chicago’s Policy Kings and Numbers Racketeers’, with publisher Nathan Thompson. 2005 brought Rush to WKKC FM, the official radio station of the City Colleges of Chicago as an On-Air Talent and Trainer for students in the Broadcast programs. Learn more at www.HaroldLeeRush.com

Harold Ramis (November 21, 1944 - Present) - Ramis started out at Second City and graduated to feature films as one of the screenwriters of Animal House. His writing and directing credits include Caddyshack, Stripes, Ghostbusters, and Groundhog Day.

Harold Washington (April 15, 1922-1987) - Washington served as Mayor of Chicago from 1983-1987 and was the first African-American to hold the office. He started his political career after earning a law degree from Northwestern Univervisty. He served as a State Rep, State Senator, and Illinois Congressman before winning the 1983 election. Washington died shortly after his re-election in 1987.

Harrison Ford (July 13, 1942-present) - Arguably the most popular actor of his generation, Harrison Ford has starred in many of Hollywood's biggest blockbusters. Ford played Han Solo in three Star Wars movies, Indiana Jones in four movies by the same name, and had leading roles in dozens of other successful movies like Blade Runner, Air Force One, and The Fugitive.

Harry M. Markowitz (August 24, 1927-present) - Dr. Markowitz has applied computer and mathematical techniques to various practical decision making areas. In finance: in an article in 1952 and a book in 1959 he presented what is now referred to as MPT, “modern portfolio theory.” This has become a standard topic in college courses and texts on investments, and is widely used by institutional investors for asset allocation, risk control and attribution analysis. In other areas: Dr. Markowitz developed “sparse matrix” techniques for solving very large mathematical optimization problems. These techniques are now standard in production software for optimization programs. Dr. Markowitz also designed and supervised the development of the SIMSCRIPT programming language. SIMSCRIPT has been widely used for programming computer simulations of systems like factories, transportation systems and communication networks. In 1989 Dr. Markowitz received The John von Neumann Award from the Operations Research Society of America [now called Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS)] for his work in portfolio theory, sparse matrix techniques and SIMSCRIPT. In 1990 he shared The Nobel Prize in Economics for his work on portfolio theory.

Harvey Korman (February 15, 1927 - 2008) - Korman won 4 Emmys and a Golden Globe for his work on the Carol Burnett Show. His filmography includes Mel Brook's Blazing Saddles and History of the World Part I.

Harvey Walden IV (December 21, 1966-present) - Walden joined the Marines at the age of 17 and retired in 2007 after achieving the rank of First Sergeant. As a drill instructor, his platoons set records for fitness and marksmanship. He is best known as the Drill Instructor on VH1's Celebrity Fit Club.

Haskell Wexler (February 6, 1922-present) - Recognized as one of the greatest cinematographers all of time, Wexler's body of work includes many of the all-time great films like Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf, Bound for Glory, In the Heat of the Night, The Thomas Crown Affair, One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, Colors, and Mulholland Falls. Wexler has been nominated for 5 Oscars, winning two - one for Virginia Wolf and the other for Bound for Glory. He was the first cinematographer to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was a recipient of the Cinematographers Lifetime Achievement Award. Perhaps his best work has been the least recognized. Wexler directed his own movie Medium Cool, about Chicago in the summer of 1968.

Herb Kent (October 5, 1928-present) - An inductee of the Radio Hall of Fame, Herb Kent's influence on music and the radio business is indisputable. He is also beloved for his community activism and leadership. In recognition of his achievements and good works, Kent had a street named after him on Chicago's South Side and was named the Honorary Mayor of Bronzeville. He currently hosts a popular weekend show on V103 in Chicago and recently published a biography called, The Cool Gent: The Nine Lives of Radio Legend Herb Kent. Kent also has the distinction of being the longest running radio personality in the world.

Herbert C Brown (May 22, 1912-2004) - The 1979 winner of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, Brown won for his work on hydrides of boron. Over his career, Brown taught at the University of Chicago, Wayne University and finally Purdue University where he served as Professor of Inorganic Chemistry.

Herbie Hancock (April 12, 1940 - Present) - Hancock has earned 10 Grammy Awards and an Oscar in his five decades as a professional musician and is recognized the world over as one of the most important musicians of our time.

Herbert Block (October 13, 1909 - 2001) - For nearly all of his professional life, Herblock was the preeminent policical cartoonist. He won his first Pulitzer in 1942, two more would follow. He started at the age 19 at the Chicago Daily News. From there he joined the Newspaper Enterprise Association for many years, and finally in 1946 he took up a 55 year residency at the Washington Post. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994 and each year the Herb Block Foundation honors excellence in editorial and political cartooning with the Herblock Prize.

Herman Kogan (November 6, 1914 - 1989) - Kogan was a popular author and journalist who spent time at The Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and the Chicago Daily News during his 50 year career, serving as a reporter, features writer, editorial writer, and editor. Additionally, Kogan authored 16 books, with Chicago as his primary subject. His most popular titles included ''Give the Lady What She Wants,'' about Marshall Field and Company, the Chicago department store; ''The Great EB: The Story of the Encyclopaedia Britannica,'' and, with Lloyd Wendt, ''Big Bill of Chicago." Every year, the Chicago Bar Association honors journalists and legal affairs reporting with the Herman Kogan Media Awards. His son Rick Kogan is a respected Chicago journalist in his own right.

Holmes "Daddy-O" Daylie (May 15, 1920-2003) - Daylie's first job out of high school was playing basketball, first as a Harlem Yankee then as a Harlem Globetrotter. He later returned to Chicago and tended bar. He ventured into radio based on the recommendation of a customer who liked his unique patter. Daylie hosted Daddy-O Jazz Patio on WAIT and worked at WMAQ and WAAF before retiring in 1983.

Charles Kocoras - A graduate of Parker High School, now Robeson, Kocoras earned his law degree from DePaul's College of Law, and went on serve as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Dept. of Justice. He was appointed to the United States District Court in 1980.

Earl Strayhorn (1918-2009) - A respected jourist, Strayhorn served on the Cook County Circuit Court for 28 years. After college, he served as an officer in World War II with the Tuskegee Airman. He went onto law school and the state's attorney's office. In private practice, Strayhorn took on big cases and earned the respect of the legal community.

Blanche M. Manning (December 12, 1934-present) - Manning started her legal career as a Cook County Prosecutor. In 1979 she was promoted to the Cook County Circuit Court and then elected to Illinois Appellate Court in 1987, (becoming the first African-American woman elected to that court.) President Clinton appointed her to Northern District Court in 1994.

Howard Griffith (born November 17, 1967-present) is a retired American football fullback who spent 11 seasons in the NFL (1991-2001). While at the University of Illinois, Howard set the NCAA record for touchdowns in a game with eight. It occurred on September 8, 1990 against Southern Illinois University. Griffith, raised in Chicago's Roseland neighborhood, attended now defunct Mendel Catholic Prep High School of the Chicago Catholic League until his sophomore year. For his junior year, he transferred to Julian High School where he was an All-City performer.
[edit]Biography

Griffith was drafted in the ninth round of the 1991 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, but never played a regular-season game for the Colts. Griffith made his NFL debut with the Los Angeles Rams in 1993. He played two seasons with the Rams, and then played two seasons with the Carolina Panthers after being selected in the 1995 NFL Expansion Draft.
In 1997, Griffith joined the Denver Broncos, and played five seasons for the Broncos primarily as a blocking back for Terrell Davis. He didn't get very many rushing attempts, but was often used as a receiver out of the backfield, recording 27 receptions in 1996 and 26 in 1999. With the Broncos, Griffith won 2 Super Bowl rings in Super Bowl XXXII and Super Bowl XXXIII. Griffith was a big contributor in the Broncos Super Bowl XXXIII win, scoring 2 rushing touchdowns in the game. He also made a key 23-yard reception in the final quarter of Super Bowl XXXII, setting up Denver's final touchdown of the game. While playing for the Denver Broncos, Howard earned the nickname The Human Plow due to his extremely successful blocking for Terrell Davis.
Griffith was forced to retire from the NFL at the start of the 2002 season, due to a neck injury sustained in the 2001 preseason that caused him to miss the entire 2001 campaign. [1] His final totals over his 11 NFL seasons include 351 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns, along with 122 receptions for 844 yards and 9 touchdowns.

Howard is the only FB in NFL history to block for 3 NFL leading rushers

Howard Miller (1912-1994) - For nearly two decades on WIND, Howard Miller was the number one radio personality in Chicago. In 1957, Time Magazine claimed Miller had the largest local audience in the nation with nearly two million audience members a week, and was "probably the single biggest influence on record sales." He would go on to own several stations of his own in Illinois and elsewhere.

Hugh M. Hefner, (April 9, 1926 - Present) Founder and former CEO of Playboy Enterprises.  

Ira Berkow (January 7, 1940 - Present) - Long time sports feature writer for the New York Times, Berkow was awarded the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for his article, “The Minority Quarterback” in the New York Times series, “How Race Is Lived in America”. He was a finalist for prize in 88. He has been honored by the Best American Sports Writing and co-wrote the best-selling book, Hank Greenberg: The Story of My Life. Other books include: Red: A Biography of Red Smith, Court Vision, To The Hoop: The Seasons of a Basketball Life, and his memoir, Full Swing; Hits, Runs and Errors in a Writer’s Life.

Ira Silverstein - Attorney; Degrees from Loyola University in 1982 and John Marshall Law School in 1985; past President of the Northtown Community Council; board member of the Korean Senior Center; member of the Greek Pan-Hellenic Laconian organization; Director of the Bernard Horwich JCC; married (wife, Debra), has four children.

Iris Martinez - Born February 25, 1956, in Chicago; attended Northeastern University and the University of Illinois at Chicago; State Central Committeewoman of the 4th Congressional District for the State Democratic Party; received the Hillary Rodham Clinton Leadership Award in 2004; has one daughter

Irna Phillips (1902-1973) - Credited with creating the "first daytime serial specifically targeted for women," Phillips is best known for creating radio and TV soap operas. Her first show was called Painted Dreams. Her second show was entitled Today's Children. Phillips went on to create or co-created the most popular soaps of all time, including: Another World, As the World Turns, Days of our Lives, The Brighter Day, The Road of Life, These Are My Children, Guiding Light, Love is a Many Splendored Thing, and Our Private World. Phillips is also widely noted for mentoring two other bright stars in the world of soaps, Agnes Nixon and William J. Bell.

Irv Kupcinet (July 31, 1912 - 2003) - Kupcinet began his 68 year career in 1935 as a sports writer for the Chicago Daily Times, and added a gossip column 1943 that became Kup's Column. When the times became the Chicago Sun-Times, Kup's column stayed and was syndicated to over 100 newspapers. In the 50's, Kup added television talk show host to his resume and went on to host several poplular shows syndicated to over 70 stations. His shows At Random and Kup's Show earned 15 Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. From booth 1 at the famous Pump Room restaurant in Chicago, Kupcinet had a steady stream of the world's most notable and powerful people visiting him. Kupcinet was elected in Chicago's Journalism Hall of Fame in 1982.

(J. Ivy - born James Ivy Richardson II) - As a poet, spoken word artist and lyricist, J. Ivy has parlayed his art across many mediums including live concerts, HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, spots on ABC, NBC, VHI, B.E.T., FOX, and MTV, TV commercials, print ads and studio sessions for Grammy Award winning projects. His collaborations have included work with Kanye West, John Legend, Lil Mo, Carl Thomas, RZA and penning a rap for Martha Stewart that she performed opposite of Diddy. Ivy has done voiceovers for sports shows like HBO's "Costas Now," "HBO Boxing," or MTV's "Who's Got Game,” and on-camera spots for the "Fed Ex Orange Bowl," and the "NBA Finals,". Ivy supports community arts through his Dream Big Foundation, which encourages young people to explore careers in the arts.

James "JY" Young (November 14, 1949-present) - Young, along with CPS alum Dennis DeYoung, was one of the founding members of the rock band Styx. After a string of hits, the original group splintered, leaving Young, today, as the sole remaining founder still touring.

James Watson (1928-Present) - 1962 Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine winner for his groundbreaking work on the structure of DNA. James Watson won the Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research in 1960. In 1997 he was awarded the National Medal of Science for his work on the Human Genome Project.

Jamie Foster Brown - Dr. Brown is owner and publisher of Sister 2 Sister, a magazine that launched in 1988 and covers the entertainment industry. Prior to Sister 2 Sister, Dr. Brown founded the Washington Theater Group, and worked for Black Entertainment Television as a producer for BET’s flagship shows, "Video Soul" and "Video LP." Dr. Brown was selected by Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government Institute of Politics to be its keynote speaker on the effect of popular music on American culture. She has been honored by the Midwest Radio & Music Association and The Support Network for her contributions to society and is a recipient of the Anheuser Busch Eagle Award, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Award for Outstanding African-American Women in the ’90s.

Janet Jagan (October 20, 1920 - 2009) - Former President of Guyana, Jagan was the first caucasion and first woman to hold the position. Jagan succeeded her husband, Cheddi Jagan, with whom she first formed their party, People's Progessive Party.

Jay Noel Yuenger (December 26, 1967-present) - Known simply as "J", Yuenger is best known as the guitarist for White Zombie, a band that went on to sell over 6 million records and earned a Grammy nomination. Since 1997, when the band dissolved, Yuenger has focused on recording and producing albums for other artists, even opening his own studio in New Orleans in 2007.

Jean Auel (February 18, 1936 – present). Born Jean Marie Untinen. Jean Auel’s best-selling novels, a six-part series set during the Ice Age, have sold over 34 million copies. Her first novel, “Clan of the Cave Bear” was made into a movie starring Daryl Hannah. Ms. Auel holds a master’s degree in business administration has been named an Officer of the Order of Arts & Letters by the French Minister of Culture and Communication and is a member of Mensa.

Jennifer Hudson (September 12, 1981-Present) - Hudson won the 2007 Oscar and Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Dream Girls.

Jeremih Felton - In 2008, while a student at Columbia College, Jeremih, a largely self taugh musician, recorded a demo and took it to Power 92, a radio station in Chicago.  The first song was a catchy car-centric song called “My Ride”. Fast forward one year and Jeremih is the newest addition to the famed Def Jam label and his recently released self-titled album debuted at number six on the Billboard 200 and sold 59,000 copies in its first week.

Jeremy Rifkin (1943-Present) - Founder of The Foundation on Economic Trends, Rifkin has authored 17 books, many of them international bestsellers, and is one of the most influential economists in the world. The National Journal named him one of the 150 most influential shapers of federal governmental policies. Rifkin's monthly column on global issues appears in newspapers around the world, and he frequently testifies before Congress on a variety of issues.

Jerome Holtzman (July 12, 1926 - 2008) - One of the most influential and beloved sports writers of all time, Holtzman's name was synonymous with baseball. His most impressive stats include, election to the writer’s wing of Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, nearly 60 years combined reporting for the Chicago Daily News, Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune, serving as Major League Baseball’s first official historian, a byline in more than 1,000 consecutive issues of The Sporting News, authoring the Encyclopedia Britannica entry on baseball, creating the save statistic for pitchers, and writing nine books on baseball, including No Cheering in the Press Box, ‘one the best 100 sports books ever written’ by Sports Illustrated. Additional honors include: serving as national president of the Baseball Writers Association of America (BWAA), and being named Chicago Press Veteran of the Year.

Jerome I. Friedman (March 28, 1930-present) - Also a gifted artist, Friedman turned down a scholarship to the Art Institute of Chicago to attend the University of Chicago and study under Enrico Fermi. Friedman's decision ultimately led him to the 1990 Nobel Prize in Physics for his part in pioneering investigations concerning deep inelastic scattering of electrons on protons and bound neutrons, which have been of essential importance for the development of the quark model in particle physics. He is an Institute Professor at M.I.T.

Kelly, Jerry BobE (1942- present) - Kelly served in United States Army from 1964-67 and earned his accounting degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago in1968. His long and varied resume includes working as a licensed real estate salesman, an accountant, a programmer for Morton Salt Co, WestSide Branch Manager for Chicago Economic Development Corp, a partner for Smith Distributors, a manager in finance & administration for Suburban Cook County Area Agency on Aging, executive director of the Lawndale Business & Local Development Corp, finance director, Northern Cook County Private Industry Council, controller, Howard Area Community Center, Board of Directors, North Side Community Federal Credit Union, Treasurer, Day Care Crisis Council Metropolitan Chicago,1st Vice President, West Side Health Planning Organization, Treasurer, Metropolitan Chicago Chapter National Caucus and Center on Black Aged, Treasurer, Board of Directors of St. Leonard's Ministries. He served on the Cook County State Attorney, African-American Advisory Council, Treasurer, North Lawndale Small Grants Human Development Corporation. Finally, Kelly has served the John Marshall High Scholl Alumni Association as President, Vice President, Financial Secreatary and Treasurer.

Jerry Butler (December 8, 1939-present) - After a career that included time as one of the founding members of the Impressions, and a popular solo musician, Butler was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Also known as The Iceman, Butler received three Grammy nominations and co-wrote many popular songs with artists like Curtis Mayfield, Otis Redding, and Gamble and Huff. He started a second career in politics, and currently serves as a commisioner on the Cook County Board.

Jewel LaFontant-MANkarious (b. Jewel Stradford) (April 28, 1922-1997) - A third generation lawyer, LaFontant-MANkarious blazed a trail of first for women and African-Americans. Following is condensed timeline of her career. In 1946 she became the first African-American woman to receive a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Chicago. 1948, joined the Board of Directors for the ACLU. 1955 first African-American woman named Assistant U.S. Attorney. 1973, appointed delegate to the United Nations General Assembly. 1973-75 First woman appointed Deputy Solicitor General of the United States. 1989, Member of the State Department as Ambassador-at-Large and Coordinator for Refugee Affairs. LaFontant-MANkarious served on over 20 corporate boards in her lifetime, including the Board of Directors for Ariel Capital Management, a firm started by her son John Rogers, Jr.

Jim Cantalupo (November 14, 1943-2004) - As chairman and CEO of McDonalds Corporation between 1991 and 2002, and again between 2003-2004, Cantalupo focused McDonalds on international expansion and turning the company into a global brand.

James Grabowski (September 9, 1944 - Present) Jim was a member of the Green Bay Packers when they went on to win the first two "Super Bowls" in January of 1967 and 1968. Jim was also the Rose Bowl MVP in 1964, leading the University of Illinois to victory. He was inducted into the National College Football Hall of Fame in 1995, and the National Academic All-American Hall of Fame in 1998.

Jim Jacobs (January 1, 1942 - present) - Jim Jacobs, along with Warren Casey, wrote Grease a stage play that first performed in Chicago at Kingston Mines Theatre. Producers saw it and suggested it would play better as a musical. After retooling it in New York, Grease went on to win a Tony for Best Book and secured its place as one of the most popular musicals of all times.

Joan Higginbotham (August 3, 1964 - Present) Graduated from Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, Chicago, Illinois, in 1982. In 1987, Higginbotham joined the Kennedy Sapce Center where she participated in 53 space shuttle launches during her 9-year tenure. In 1996, she transfered to the Johnson Space Center as an astronaut candidate. She was part of the crew on STS-116 Discovery (December 9-22, 2006). In November 2007, Joan Higginbotham retired from NASA after logging over 300 hours in space.

Fiorentino was all-city and all-conference in football and captain of the 1976 7-1 Section Champs. Currently, Fiorentino is one of the nations best Mixed Martial Artist and Grapplers. He was nominated for induction into the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame and in 2008 was the #1 ranked over 40 grappler in the nation. Other accolades include: 1998 Extreme Martial Arts MMA Winner; 2006 NAGA Chicago Grappling Champion Heavyweight Division; 2007 NAGA Midwest Grappling Champion, 2007 Midwest Jiu-Jitsu Champion; 2008 Arnold Grappling Championships, 2008 NAGA Midwest Grappling Championship  winning  a  championship  belt. Has  been  Featured in  American  police  beat  magazine  2009, Fightsport  magazine 2009, Amici magazine 2008  with  wife  Heidi, Chicago Sun-times 2007, Fightzone Magazine 2007, Ultimate grappling magazine 2006  and  Police  Magazine 2009. A  Cook  County  Deputy  Sheriff. Joe  is  a  member  of  the  Roosevelt  High  School  Sports  Hall  of  Fame  and  a  member  of  the  United  States  Martial  Arts  Hall  of  Fame. Awarded  The  President`s  Volunteer  Service  Award  from  President  Obama given  a  Gold  President`s  Pin. Naga Europa World Grappling Championship 2009 1st place Expert Division winning a Championship Belt. Awarded The  2010  Illinois  State  Bar  Association  Law  Enforcement  Award. Inducted  into  The  Italian  American  National  Hall  of  Fame .

Joe Soto hosts The Real Show weekdays on V103 and Back in the Day on Saturdays. He has an Associates degree from Daley College and a Bachelors from Northern Illinois University.

Joe Williams (December 12, 1918-1999) - Williams was an important figure in Jazz. He is best remembered for his work with Count Basie Orchestra and as the Grandfather on the Cosby Show. Williams won two Grammys and a number of other honors like a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Joel Weisman (1942-Present) - Emmy Award winning Host and Senior Editor of Chicago Tonight: The Week in Review on WTTW Channel 11. Weisman's career started at the City News Bureau of Chicago, he went on to the Gary Post-Tribune, Chicago American(Chicago Today), and the Chicago Sun-Times where he served as a reporter, columnist and Metropolitan Editor. Weisman was also a correspondent for The Washington Post. Honors include multiple Peter Lisagor, Jacob Scher, and Associated Press awards and two Pulitzer Prize nominations for his investigative reporting, as well as, Emmy Awards for commentary and news analysis for WGN Television. An attorney, specializing in media and entertainment law, Weisman represents journalists at stations and publications around the country and has lectured extensively on legal and journalism issues.

John C. Reilly (May 24, 1965-Present) - Soon after graduating from The Goodman School of Drama (now the Theatre School at DePaul) Reilly joined Steppenwolf for their landmark production of The Grapes of Wrath. Not long after, he made Casualties of War with Sean Penn and Brian DePalma. In 2002, Reilly was in three Oscar nominated films, and even earned a supporting actor Oscar nomination for Chicago. Reilly's success in over 50 films and on Broadway, where he earned a Tony nomination for True West, has earned him leading man status in more recent films.

John Calamos (1940-present) - As Founder and CEO of Calamos Asset Management, Calamos used his investment acumen to earn a spot on Forbes 400 list of wealthiest individuals. A former Air Force Pilot, Calamos attended I.I.T. and is the author of two books, Investing in Convertible Securities: Your Complete Guide to the Risks and Rewards, and Convertible Securities: the Latest Instruments, Portfolio Strategies, and Valuation Analysis.

John Chancellor (July 14, 1927 - 1996) - As anchor of the NBC Nightly News from 1970-1982, Chancellor influenced a generation of reporters. He began his career with the Chicago Sun-Times and soon after began work as a correspondent on NBC's Huntley-Brinkley Report. He is remembered most notably for his coverage of the integration of Little Rock Arkansas, being arrested on the floor of the 1964 Republican Convention, the creator of the Red and Blue states to discuss presidential elections, and as the Emmy winning narrator for the Ken Burns series, Baseball.

John Gunther (August 30, 1901-1970) - Gunther was one of the most famous journalists of his day with several books topping the New York Times bestseller list. However, it is his memoir Death Be Not Proud about son's battle with a brain tumor for which he is best remembered.

John H. Johnson (January 19, 1918-2005) -  As founder and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company, Johnson created two of the most popular magazines in the world, Ebony and Jet. He also became the first African American to make the Forbes 400 list of wealthiest individuals. He was awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Clinton in 1996.

John Jakes (March 31, 1932-present) - The first author ever to have three books on the New York Times Best Seller list, Jakes is the prolific writer behind several popular series, the Kent Family Chronicles, North And South Trilogy and the Crown Family Saga. Jakes has had 18 consecutive best sellers and many of his books have been made into television mini-series.

John Podesta (January 15, 1949-present) - Podesta served as President Clinton's Chief of Staff from 1998-2001. Currently, he is President of the Center for American Progress.

John Tobias (August 24, 1969-Present) - Tobias was one of the creators of the legendary video game Mortal Kombat, and many of its successors. He got his start as an artist for the Real Ghostbusters comic book series.

Johnny“Red” Kerr (July 17, 1932 - 2009) – Kerr’s basketball career began at Tilden High School where he led the team to a Public League Championship. Next he played at Illinois where he helped the school to a Big 10 Championship and an NCAA Final Four appearance. From 1954 to 1966, Kerr played for the Syracuse Nationals (which became the 76ers) leading them to a NBA Championship, and becoming a 3 time All-Star. When the Chicago Bulls joined the NBA, Kerr became their first coach and won the NBA Coach of the Year Award. When Kerr left coaching, he began a thirty-three year broadcasting career as a commentator for the Chicago Bulls. Kerr’s honors include a sculpture in the United Center, the Basketball Hall of Fame's John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award.

Johnny Griffin (April 24, 1928-July 25, 2008) - Griffin began his professional career at 15 playing with T-Bone Walker. By 16 he was touring with Lionel Hampton. He would go on to play with Thelonious Monk and form his own group. He was renowned for his speed and the length of his phrasing. He spent a good deal of his life in Europe playing jazz with musicians passing through.

Johnny Washington (1930-present) - Before joining the Marines and earning two Purple Hearts and the Silver Star in the Korean War, Washington was a professional baseball player in the Negro Leagues playing for Chicago and Huston. After the war, he played in the minor leagues and led the league in hitting and pitching seven and eight times respectively.

Johnny Weissmuller (June 2, 1904-1984) - As a swimmer in the 1924 and 1928 Olympics, Weismuller won 5 gold medals and 1 bronze medal. He is most famous, however, for his portrayal of Tarzan and credited for creating the famous Tarzan call.

Born in 1903 in Galicia, Austria. Graduated Carpenter school in 1914. Graduated Waller High school in 1917. Dr. Guttman received his M.D. in 1927 from the Chicago Medical School. He took his internship at Columbus Hospital in Chicago. He took his post graduate training at the University of Hamburg in Germany. Introduced the anesthetic avertin into the United States in 1929.

Justina Machado (September 6, 1972-present) - Machado is probably best known for her work on HBO's Six Feet Under. Her career, however, has been a mix of film and television roles. Other television credits include spots on NYPD Blue, Grey's Anatomy, and Ugly Betty.

Juwan Howard (February 7, 1973-Present) - As a member of the University of Michigan's Fab 5, Howard made it to the NCAA Championships in each of his first two seasons. He currently plays in the NBA for the Dallas Mavericks.

Kanye West (June 8, 1977-present) - 10 Grammy's and counting, Kanye West is one of the biggest recording artists of the new millennium. His albums, College Dropout, Late Registration and Graduation have  garnered critical praise and are among the best selling albums of 2004, 2005, and 2007respectively.

Keena Turner (October 22, 1958-present) - As a member of the San Francisco 49ers from 1980 to 1990, Turner won four Superbowls and earned a trip to the 1984 Pro Bowl. He is currently an announcer for the 49ers.

Keith Preston (September 29, 1884 - 1927) - Preston began his post collegiate career as a professor but left after a few years to work as a columnist at the Chicago Daily News. For years he had published poems in the Chicago Tribune under the pseudonym “Pan,” in “A Line O’ Type or Two,” a popular column in the Chicago Tribune. Preston wrote five books, including “Pot Shots from Pegasus” and “Splinters.”

Kelvin Hayden (July 28, 1983-present) - Playing for the Indianapolis Colts, Hayden's first NFL interception was in Superbowl XLI when he returned a Rex Grossman pass for a touchdown.

Ken Nordine (1920-Present) - One of the most distinguished voice artists in the world, Nordine's career includes numerous recordings, commericials and radio programs. Perhpas best known for his Word Jazz recordings and radio show, Nordine is a poet and frequent collaborator with artists of other mediums. His best known collaborations include work with The Grateful Dead, Fred Astaire and Chico Hamilton. His newest work can be found at www.wordjazz.com.

Kenneth Charles Henry (January 7, 1929 – March 1, 2009) won a gold medal in speed skating at the 1952 Winter Olympics in Oslo, Norway despite a bout with the flu. At the 1968 Olympic Games he coached the U.S. women’s speed-skating team. Mr. Henry received a teaching degree from Northern Illinois University and taught at Austin High School before becoming a pro golfer.

Kenneth Dunkin - Raised in the Cabrini Green Housing Development of Chicago, Dunkin attended Lincoln Park High School and went on to earn his associate’s degree from Harold Washington College. Dunkin continued his education at Morehouse College where he earned his bachelors degree in Political Science and later his masters degree in social welfare from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago. Dunkin worked as social worker for many years. Most recently, he was the Director of the Robert Taylor Boys and Girls Club of Chicago, where he managed over $2.5 million in program services. He also worked as a consultant for the City of Chicago Department of Health and Department on Aging. He interned with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Care Financing Administration, and United States Senator Paul Simon. Dunkin is currently a member of the Attorney Registration Disciplinary Commission (appointed by Illinois Supreme Court), Board of the Chicago International Film Festival, Lawson YMCA, Near North Health Services Corp, Phi Beta Sigma, Inc. and the Governor’s Film Task Force.

Kevin A. McCarthy - Senior Territory Manager; born Dec. 5, 1950, in Chicago; B.A., Chicago State University, 1972; M.A., education administration & supervision, DePaul University, 1976; U.S. Army Reserves, 1971-77; married (wife, Judy), has two children. McCarthy taught at both Austin Middle School and Clarke Middle School before starting his public service.

Kevin Garnett (May 19, 1976-Present) - Garnett was named NBA MVP in 2004 and is a 10-time NBA All-Star. He is also an 8-time NBA All Defensive player. In 2008, Garnett won his first NBA Championship as a member of the Boston Celtics.

Kim Novak (February 13, 1933-present) - Born Marilyn Pauline Novak, Ms. Novak starred in Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo with Jimmy Stewart. Other screen legends she has worked with included Jack Lemmon, Fran Sinatra, and Rita Hayworth.

Kiratiana Freelon graduated cum laude with a degree in Economics from Harvard University in 2002. While at Harvard, she was the co-executive editor of the Black Guide to Life at Harvard. At the end of her senior year, she was awarded the John H. Finley fellowship for travel around the world. She has traveled to West Africa (Senegal, Gambia, Mali, Guinea-Conakry, Burkina Faso, and Ghana), Brazil, and Paris. Currently, Freelon is working for the Chicago2016, including writing a popular blog that follows the progress of the Chicago bid.

Kirby Puckett (March 14, 1960-2006) - Puckett ended his high school baseball career as an All-American third baseman. He attended Bradley University and Triton Jr. College before being drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 1982. He spent his entire career with Minnesota, winning two World Series Championships, six golden gloves, MVP of the 1993 All-Star Game, as well as being selected an all star in 10 straight seasons. His number was retired by the Twins and Puckett was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on his first ballot.

Knute Rockne (March 4, 1888-1931) - By the age of 43, Rockne had established himself as one of the greatest coaches of all time. At Notre Dame, Rockne compiled an .881 winning percentage, tops for college or pro football, and won 6 national championships, along with 5 undefeated seasons. More than a coach, Rockne was an innovator who championed the forward pass and made equipment improvements during his tenure. Perhaps Rockne is best known as the coach of the Four Horsemen and the Gipper, the latter being the inspiration of Rockne's famous "Win One For the Gipper" speech.

Lavern Scott Caldwell (April 17, 1950-present) - Caldwell began her career in theatre, winning a Tony Award in 1988 for her role in Joe Turners Come and Gone. Caldwell also has extensive film and television credits, most recently on the ABC show Lost and the film Gridiron Gang.

LaDonna Tittle – Tittle first jobs in radio were with WBEE in Chicago and WNOV. in Milwaukee. In 1973 she shifted to WBMX in Chicago. Moonlighting as an actress, Tittle is a familiar voiceover, commercial and stage actress. Other radio credits include, WJPC, WWHN, WGCI and satellite radio station WGCR. Awards include the Operation PUSH Woman of the Year Award and the Black Radio Exclusive Air Personality Award.

Larry Ellison (August 17, 1944-Present) - Founder and CEO of Oracle Corporation.

Larry Fitgerald - Fitzgerald is a popular and respected sports writer, and radio/television producer, host and commentator serving Minnesota and the Twin Cities. His work includes 20 years as Sports Editor and Columnist for the Minnesota Spokesman Recorder plus a host of popular radio and television programs starting in 1979. In 2003, Fitzgerald was awarded the 2003 Heritage Award by the Minnesota State Baptist Convention for outstanding community service in the field of sports coverage. Fitzgerald had the unique honor of covering his son Larry Fitzgerald, Jr., a receiver with the Arizona Cardinals, in the 2008 Super Bowl.

Larry Gelbart (February 25, 1928 – present). A versatile comedy writer and producer, Larry Gelbart is best-known for writing the popular television series M*A*S*H. In a career spanning 60 years, Larry Gelbart has written for radio, television, films and Broadway; winning 3 Tony Awards, 3 Emmy Awards, the Drama Desk Award and the Peabody Award.

Larry Henderson - In 2007, Henderson became the first Illinois National Guard soldier to graduate from drill Sergeant School and one of the first African-American drill sergeants in the history of the National Guard.

At age 13  was youngest news anchor on Chicago radio having a regular news shift on WVON in 1966 While still in elementary school at Beale.
First African American Staff Announcer at WBBM TV  (1973)
Founded Langford Broadcasting in 1986.
Field Communications Coordinator for the SCLC Poor Peoples Campaign to Washington DC in 1968
Midwest Corespondent for ABC radio news in 1977
Police and Fire reporter for WMAQ Chicago 1988-2000
Peter Lisagor award for news coverage at WMAQ

Born In Chicago, at Provident Hospital to Anna Langford. Raised and still lives in the Englewood community. Attended Copernicus Elementary where he took second place in the 1964 city wide Science fair for an exhibit on long distance radio communications. Was among the youngest consulting radio engineers in the Midwest having redesigned and repaired broadcast stations when as young as 14.

Had an exceptionally long radio career in the same market, on air in Chicago as a news reporter or news anchor from 1966 till 2000. Then as a second career  became  a media spokesperson for the City of Chicago first at the 911 center then and currently as the Director of Media and Communications at the Chicago Fire Department.

Divorced with three children.

Larry Whiteside - Winner of the J.G. Taylor Spink Award and enshrined in the writer's wing of the Baseball Hall of Fame, Whiteside began his career writing for the Kansas City Kansan and Milwaukee Journal Sentinel before becoming a mainstay at The Boston Globe. Whiteside made it easier for other African-Americans to follow. Whiteside was the first black Hall of Fame voter and was responsible for circulating a list of talented African-American journalists to newspaper editors. Among his many honors was a lifetime achievement award from the National Association of Black Journalists.

Leanita McClain (1951-1984) - McClain was a groundbreaking journalist who worked her way up the Chicago Tribune ladder. She began her career as a reporter, a copy editor, a picture editor and Perspective editor before going on to become the first African American and second woman appointed to The Tribune's editorial board. McClain was also a frequent contributor to other publications like the Washington Post and Newsweek. McClain was known as a champion of solving the "problems of race relations in this nation with fairness and compassion..."(Monroe Anderson).

Leo Lerner (1907-1965) - Lerner was an American newspaper editor and publisher. His first jobs out of college included editorial positions on the Morton Grove News, the Lincoln Belmont Booster and the North Side Sunday Citizen. He was the only neighborhood newspaperman accredited by the State Department to cover the United Nations Conference at San Francisco in 1945. By 1958 Lerner was President, Editor, and Publisher, controlling the Myers Publishing Co., the Lincoln Belmont Publishing Co., the Times Home Newspapers (J. L. Johnson Publishing Co.) and the Neighbor Press of Chicago. Additionally, Lerner served on many boards, often as chair, including: the Chicago Public Library, Chicago Better Business Bureau, Citizens Advisory Board of the Community Relations Service, and Illinois Parole and Pardon Board. He helped found Roosevelt University, and served as president of its Board of Trustees. Awards and honors include; the Decalogue Society of Lawyers' Annual Award of Merit. the Chicago Medal of Merit, the first Editorial Award presented by the Illinois Press Association, and the Publisher of the Year Award in 1953. Lerner authored four books in addition to being a frequent speaker and commentator.

Leo Melamed (1932 - present) - Founder of the Financial Futures Market, Melamed was named one of the ten most important Chicagoans in business of the 20th Century by the Chicago Tribune and Pensions & Investments said he was one of 30 individuals whose contribution "made the most dramatic difference" in the management of money during the last 100 years. He bagan life on the run from Nazi's in Poland and went on to serve as chairman of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange during which time he launched currency futures and created the International Monetary Market (IMM)-the world's first futures market for financial instruments. Melamed also introduced Globex, the first futures electronic trading system. Today, Melamed is Chairman & CEO of Melamed & Associates, Inc., Chairman Emeritus of the CME Group, and an important force behind the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Lillian Marguerite Tynes Perry (b. 1950) is a graduate of Lindblom Tech High School and James McCosh Elementary School where she later taught. She earned a B.A. in Psychology from Lake Forest College, and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Northwestern University. She currently serves on the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, appointed in 2006 by the Honorable Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. She has successfully balanced dual careers in education and the entertainment industry as a singer/songwriter. She has been a professional union (AFTRA/SAG) vocalist since her second year of college. She has performed and toured with Chicago artists, i.e., Walter Jackson, Ramsey Lewis, Earth Wind & Fire and the Emotions during the 70's, and has traveled the world as a concert vocalist. She moved to California after performing with The National Touring Company of The Wiz. She performed the background vocals on the Grammy Award winning soundtrack of the film 'Happy Feet'. She has been married since 1985 to world renown entertainer, Phil Perry, and is the mother of four young adults (ages 17-23). She is founder of The PhiLill Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity established in 2003. Commissioner Perry maintains dual residences in Chicago and Southern California.

Lorraine Hansberry (May 19, 1930-1965) - Hansberry is a 1944 graduate of Ross Elementary and a 1947 graduate of Englewood High School. Her play A Raisin in the Sun won the New York Drama Desk award for New Play and was the first by an African-American woman to be produced on Broadway.

Lou Rawls (December 1, 1933-2006) - Rawls career included over 60 albums, which sold over 40 million copies. During that time he earned three Grammy awards and 13 Grammy nominations, one platinum album, five gold albums and a gold single. He collaborated several times with CPS alumni Sam Cooke.

Louis Carr (May 3, 1956-present) - In addition to running his own real estate company and serving as Chairman of the Louis Carr Internship Foundation, which provides paid internships to student of color, Carr is also President of Media Sales for BET. He serves on the board of the Advertising Council, The American Advertising Federation and the Cable Advertising Bureau.

Widely regarded as the “Father” of the financial services for the Deaf in America, Louis J. Schwarz, *QFP, CFP®, RFC®, ChFEBC, paved the way for deaf professionals providing financial services in the private sector by establishing his tax preparation firm in 1971. Prior in obtaining the Certified Financial Planner® license in 1986, he established the first deaf-owned registered investment advisory (RIA) firm in America in 1983. Mr. Schwarz, featured as the first deaf financial professional in Who’s Who in Finance and Industry, holds several designations that qualify him as an outstanding professional in the financial services field. His professional qualifications extend beyond the industry by virtue of his community activism as he has continuously served in the Deaf community, for over 40 years, through many organizations including several organizations that he established, namely, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Entrepreneurs Council, National Deaf Business Institute (NDBI), Montgomery County (MD) Association of Deaf (MDAD). His tireless fundraising and pro bono services for these organizations, including Dee Cee Eyes, American Society for Parents of Deaf Children, Deaf Abused Women’s Network (DAWN) and National Association of the Deaf (NAD), demonstrate his commitment to the Deaf community. Focusing on inaccessibility issues for the Deaf, he currently devotes much of his available time to act as a board member for the following boards: National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Technical and E-911 Committees, National Emergency Numbers Association (NENA)’s Accessibility Committee, the Governor’s Advisory Board on Telecommunication Relay, State of Maryland and Tri-County Association of the Deaf (Florida). *Qualified Financial Planner (QFP), Registered Financial Consultant ® (RFC), Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultant™ (ChFEBC) and NASD Series 7/63 Registered Representative

Louis Lason attended Plamondon Elementary School (class of 1935) and Harrison High School (class of 1939). At Harrison, Louis was 1st chair saxaphone in the band. He went on to become the first and only Conductor of the Chicago Fire Department Band, during it's 20-year life-- a position for which he was hand-picked by Mayor Richard Daley, and proudly led that band to three U.S. Presidential Inauguration's. Lason also conducted a band at the University of Chicago. After serving in the U.S. Army and attending college, Mr. Lason taught at Calumet and Steinmetz High Schools where he was the Director of Bands where he impacted so many lives -- giving subsequent generations of CPS students a taste of his passion for music. After a lifelong career in the Chicago Public Schools, Louis Lason retired in 1985. Mr. Lason continued his musical career as the first Director of the Arlington Heights Community Concert Band. Mr. Lason passed in 2002 and is missed by many.

Louis Zorich (February 12, 1924-present) - Zorich is best remembered as Burt Buchman, the father of Paul on "Mad About You;" however, his long career includes numerous film, televisions and stage roles, including a turn on Broadway in 1969 in  "Hadrian VII" that earned him a Tony nomination. Zorich's other credits include Muppets Take Manhattan, City of Hope and Fiddler on the Roof.

Lucky Cordell (July 28, 1928-present) - Dubbed the Baron of Bounce, Cordell gained fame as the host of the House of Hits in Gary, Indiana. His star continued to rise when he moved to Chicago an eventually to WVON. Owned by Chess Records at the time, Cordell helped the station gain national prominence with its much-copied R&B format. Cordell ascended to the general managers position, taking the station to new heights.

Born June 13th, 1954 in Corozal, Puerto Rico. Attended Pulaski Elementary School and Tuley High School (now Roberto Clemente High School) in Chicago. Member of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers and a Chicago municipal employee since 1985. Married (Maribel) with three adult children (Luis Jr., Denise & Alberto), and two grandchildren (Jocelyn & Jaylen).

Lynn Martin (December 26, 1939 - Present) - Martin's long and distinguished career as a public servant is highlighted by her time as Secretary of Labor and her service as Illinois Congressman for the 16th District. Martin also served in the IL General Assembly as a Representative and Senator. Outside of politics, Martin has served on the board of several companies, including SBC, Proctor & Gamble, and TRW to name a few and as a trustee of the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Lynn Sweet - Sweet is the Washington Bureau Chief for the Chicago Sun-Times, writing a blog and a column for the paper. She is also a columnist for the Huffington Post and The Hill. Sweet is a frequent guest on MSNBC, CBS, FOX, CNN, and NBC and her coverage of Obama and the 2008 presidential election has been widely praised. A trendsetter, Sweet was one of the first journalists in the U.S. to analyze political ads for accuracy and peers have lauded her for her use of technology and speed in reporting. In 2004, Sweet was a fellow at the Harvard University's Institute of Politics (spring '04) at the Kennedy School of Government, and in 2007 she was inducted into Medill's Hall of Achievement and the Chicago Journalism Hall of Fame.

Born in 1901 in Galicia, Austria. Graduated from Carpenter school in 1911. Graduated Lane Technical High in 1915. B.S. from the University of Illinois in 1922. MD from the University of Illinois MD 1924. Numerous contributions to medical literature. Internship at Barnes Hospitam in St. Louis. Practiced medical specialty of Otolaryngology at 30 N. Michigan. Professor of Otolaryngology at Loyola University School of Medicine. Passed away in 1997. First medical talking picture. Numerous scientific medical literature contributions regarding surgery of the head and neck. Professor of Otolaryngology at Loyola University School of Medicine.

Mae Jemison (October 17, 1956 - Present) - As part of the space shuttle Endeavor's September 1992 mission, Dr. Jemison became the first woman of color in space. In addition to authoring two books, Jemison started the Jemison Group in 1993 and the Biosentient Group in 1999. She's taught at Cornell University and Dartmouth College and is much sought after speaker.

A Chicago native, Ms. Brown made her professional acting and singing debut at the Body Politic Theater. She studied music, theater and voice at Columbia College and has since taken her polished vocal style on the road. Ms. Brown describes what she does as "edutainment", using her gifts to not only entertain, but educate as well. Through her own business; The Legacy and Company and her family's company BrownHouse Edutianment, Brown provides quality edutainment. Since 1991, Ms. Brown has toured Chicago-area schools and nationally on the college circuit, performing her one-woman show: LEGACY: Our Wealth Of Music. "LEGACY" is a musical demonstration/lecture about the history and evolution of African American music. In 1997, Maggie helped the Chicago House Of Blues develop their Blues Schoolhouse student outreach program. In addition to performing, Ms. Brown runs an independent music label: Mag Pie Records. In 1996, Browns album “From My Window” was nominated by the Chicago Music Awards for Best Jazz CD. The following year she was nominated for Best Jazz Performer (1997). An appearance at the Schomberg Library Center in New York with her legendary father, Oscar Brown, Jr., led to a collaboration with acclaimed singer/songwriter: Abbey Lincoln on her album Wholly Earth which was released January 1999 on the Verve label. The Chicago Tribune declares Maggie is: "sublime" on her duets in which she "maintains her musical identity. . . pointing to her depth as an interpretive artist." Ms. Brown is well known in Chicago for her appearances at Millennium Park, Chicago Jazz Festival, Symphony Center and at colleges, schools, museums and libraries.

Mandy Patinkin (November 30, 1952-present) -  Tony Award, Ace Award, Emmy Award. Mandy Patinkin made his mark as Che Guevara in Evita, winning the 1979 Tony Award for Featured Actor in a Musical. He was nominated for a Tony again in 1984 and 2000. His film and TV highlights include an Emmy Award for Actor in a Drama for Chicago Hope and an Ace Award for Sunday in the Park with George. An acclaimed recording artist, Patinkin has recorded seven solo albums.

Marc Hannah (October 13, 1956-present) - Few people have probably heard of Marc Hannah, though nearly everyone is familiar with his work. Hannah was a founder and Vice President of SGI, the company that makes the computers that are used to create special effects for movies like Batman, Jurassic Park, and Beauty and the Beast. Hannah now applies his experience with a number of companies doing innovative work.

Margaret Taylor-Burroughs (November 1, 1917-present) - Taylor-Burroughs life and work in Chicago is woven tightly into the fabric of the city. She founded the South Side Community Arts Center at the age of 22, and later the DuSable Museum of African-American Art. She taught for 23 years at DuSable High School, and ten years at Kennedy-King College in Chicago. Taylor-Burroughs is also a gifted artist and author and her work has been celebrated around the world.

World-renowned beauty authority, author and speaker, Marilyn Miglin is among the nation's top-500 women business owners. Her signature fragrance, Pheromone, is one of the top-10 fragrances sold in luxury department stores nationwide and each month, more than 65-million television viewers invite her into their homes to purchase her products. - Schurzhs.org

Mark Aguirre - A two time NBA Champion with the Detroit Pistons, Agguire averaged 20 points a game over his professional career. At DePaul University, Agguire avered over 24 points a game and won the James Naismith Award as the top college player in 1980.

Martin Sandoval - Full time state-legislator, born in The Back of the Yards, graduate of Loyola University in Chicago where he earned a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. Sandoval resides in the Chicago Southwest Side neighborhood of Gage Park with his wife, Marina, their twins, Martin Jr. and Angie, and their daughter, Jenny.

Martin Cooper (December 26, 1926-present) - In 1973, inspired by Star Trek, Cooper invented the world's first mobile phone as part of Motorola's R&D department. Today, Cooper is CEO and founder of ArrayComm, a leading wireless technology company. Cooper earned both his undergrad and graduate degrees from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

Marvin Freeman (April 10, 1963-Present) - Freeman spent ten years in the major leagues, from 1986 to 1996. He pitched for the Phillies, Braves, Rockies, and for a time, the Chicago White Sox.

Marvin Levy (August 3, 1925-present) - As the only coach to compete in four Superbowls in a row, Levy cemented his legacy as one of the best football coaches of all time. Coaching the Buffalo Bills at the time, Levy also won 6 division championships in the same era. As a CFL coach, Levy won 2 out of 3 championships he competed in during his five years in the league.

Mary E. Flowers (1951-Present) - Flowers is Chairperson of the Committee on Health Care Availability Access. She received the Legislator of the Year award from the Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association in 1993.

Mary Mitchell (May 23, 1949 - Present) - Mitchell worked 20 years as a legal secretary before returning to school to earn a degree in journalism from Columbia College. She parlayed an internship at the Chicago Sun-Times into a full time job at the times in 1991. Her award-winning series on Chicago Vocational High School and her reporting on Operation Silver Shovel earned Mitchell her own column in 1996. Mitchell is currently an editorial board member and her many honors include the Award of Excellence from the National Association of Black Journalists, the Studs Terkel Award, and the Peter Lisagor Award.

Mattie Hunter - Full-time state legislator; born June 1 in Chicago; B.A., Government, Monmouth College; M.A., Sociology, Jackson State University; single. Appointments: Co-Chair of Health Policy Task Force, Council of State Governments, Vice Chair of the Commission to Study the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its Past and Present Effects on African-Americans.

Maurice Cheeks (September 8, 1956-present) - Maurice Cheeks played in the NBA for 15 years, most of that time with the Philadelphia 76ers. He helped the 76ers to three NBA Championship Finals, winning one in 1983. He is once again with the 76ers, this time as Head Coach.

Mavis Staples (July 10, 1939 - present) - One of the leading Gospel and Blues singers of her generation, Staples began her career singing with her family as part of the famed Staple Singers. Famous for songs like "I'll Take You There", and "Let's Do It Again," The Staple Singers won a Lifetime Achievment Grammy in 2005. On her own, Staples has had an equally impressive career, working alongside artists like Prince, and Curtis Mayfield and hitting the charts with songs like Have a Little Faith. Mavis Staples was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

Max Levchin (1975-present) - As one of the founders and Chief Technology Officer of PayPal, Levchin helped navigate the e-commerce company to the top spot on the Internet. They were purchased by eBay after PayPal secured over 50% of the daily transactions on eBay's site. Levchin is currently working on his newest venture, Slide.

Mel Agee (November 22, 1968-2008) - Agee played in the NFL for five years with the Colts and Atlanta Falcons. Agee attended the University of Illinois and was recently named one of the 10 Greatest Defensive Lineman in Illini's history. He was first-team All-Big Ten in 1989 and 1990 and an honorable mention All-America selection in 1990.

Mel Torme (September 13, 1925-1999) - Torme was a prolific songwriter, performer and actor with over 250 songs to his credit and dozens of movie and television appearances. He co-wrote The Christmas Song, one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time as recorded by Nat King Cole (who is also an alumnus of CPS).

Melville Elijah Stone (August 22, 1848 – 1929) – Stone began working as a journalist in 1864. In 1875 he founded the Chicago Daily News, the original Chicago penny daily. Victor F. Lawson, became part owner in 1876. In 1888, Stone sold the rest of the Daily News to Lawson. During the 1890’s, Lawson was involved with Globe National Bank, serving as president until it merged with Continental Bank of Chicago. In 1893, Stone became the general manager of the Associated Press of Illinois, which later became the Associated Press. In 25 years with the AP, Stone had strengthened its foreign bureau and made it highly regarded institution. Stone’s autobiography is entitled, Fifty Years a Journalist.

Mercedes Soler, a five time Emmy Award winning journalist, is one of the most repsected and recognizable Latina journalists in the world. Among U.S. Hispanics, Soler is more recognizable than Oprah, in part because of her dozens of interviews with Latin American Presidents and investigative reporting that caused national incidents in Chile and Argentina. Soler has 15 Emmy nominations to her credit and as well as an Associated Press award and the Hispanic Media’s Most Influential Journalist’s award. Soler, as part of the Miami Bombshells, is author of Dish and Tell, Life, Love and Secrets.

Merri Dee (October 30, 1936-present) - As the Community Relations Manager at WGN in Chicago since 1984, Dee is able to leverage her experience as a journalist for the benefit of community organizations doing the work that has become her life's focus. Dee started in radio in 1966 and quickly moved to television in 1968. She hosted her own talk show on several stations before moving to WGN where she became one of the first African-American women to anchor a Chicago newscast. In 1984 she moved into her current position of dedicate more time important causes. She is frequently honored for her dedication and success in promoting adoption and child welfare issues.

Meyer Levin (October 7, 1905 - 1981) - Levin  began is career in journalism working for the Chicago Daily News as reporter and quickly graduated up to columnist. He wrote 15 books during his career, most notably The Old Bunch and Compulsion. Levin covered WWII as a foreign correspondent for several outlets, where he witnessed the liberation of several concentration camps. Immediately following the war, Levin directed the influential documentary The Illegals. Levin's book Compulsion, about the Leopold and Lobe case, is credited with starting the genre known as the nonfiction novel. The book was later turned into a popular play and movie. Levin was one of the first to read and champion the Diary of Anne Frank, and the first to turn it into a play. A series of events led to his play being spurrned and another version winning the Pulitzer. Levin was devastated by these events and never found peace on the issue. The last years of Levin's life were spent in Isreal where he wrote several more books, including The Architect.

Michael Baisden (June 27, 1963-present) - Baisden first earned recognition for his books on contemporary relationships between men and women. In 2003, he was given the afternoon show on 98.7 KISS FM in New York. In six months he had the number 1 rated show. He parlayed that success into a nationally syndicated program The Michael Baisden Show (WSRB in Chicago) and a television talk show on TV One entitled Baisden After Dark.

Michael Clark Duncan (December 10, 1957 - Present) - Duncan began his acting career in earnest in the mid 1990’s. Most famous for his Oscar nominated turn in the Green Mile, Duncan has been a steady presences on television and the big screen ever since. Credits include, The Whole Nine Yards, The Scorpion King, Daredevil, Sin City, Talladega Nights, Kung Fu Panda, and Street Fighter.

Michael Gross (June 21, 1947-Present) - Michael Gross is an actor best known for his turn as Steven Keaton on the sitcom Family Ties. A classically trained actor, Gross won an Obie award in 1982 for his role in No End of Blame, a Drama Desk Award for Bent and makes frequent forays onto Broadway.

Michael Mann (February 5, 1943-present) - A tour de force in Hollywood since the late 60's, Mann has found success as a writer, director and producer. He has been nominated for 4 Academy Awards and 2 Emmy Awards. His directing credits include Heat with Robert DiNero and Al Pacino, Ali with Will Smith, Collateral with Tom Cruise, The Insider with Russell Crowe, and the Last of the Mohicans with Daniel Day-Lewis.

Michael Pena (January 13, 1976-Present) - A rising star in Hollywood, Pena has made a name for himself in movies like Crash, Million Dollar Baby, and World Trade Center. Pena got his start in To Sir With Love (2) after a friend of his mother's encouraged him to audition.

Michaelk Strautmanis - Bell School class of 1983, has been named Chief of Staff to the Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental Relations and Public Liaison; in the Obama administration.

Michelle Brown-Larks (June 10, 1976 - present) South Shore High School, class of 1973 alumni, Michelle Brown-Larks was born and raised in Chicago. She currently resides in the western suburbs of Chicago. Michelle has been writing professionally since 2003. She has written six books, three of which she self-published. Her latest work, The Legacies will be released in the summer of 2008 by Urban Christian/Kensington Books. Visit Michelle on the web at www.MichelleLarks.com or at myspace, www.myspace.com/michellelarks.

Michelle Robinson Obama (January 17, 1964 - Present) Following law school, Obaman was an associate at the Chicago branch of the law firm Sidley Austin. She held public sector positions in the Chicago city government as an Assistant to the Mayor and Assistant Commissioner of Planning and Development. In 1993 she became Executive Director for the Chicago office of Public Allies, a non-profit organization encouraging young people to work on social issues in nonprofit groups and government agencies. In 2002,she became the executive director for community affairs and in May, 2005, became Vice President for Community and External Affairs at the University of Chicago Hospitals. On January 20, 2009, when her husband was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States, Michelle Obama became the First Lady. 

Mike Mealer, currently the Police Commander of District 17, started his law enforcement career in 1983. His tour of duty has included serving as Commanding officer of the in-service training section of the training academy; commanding officer of special investigations in the internal affairs division; CAPS lieutenant, watch commander, liaison to the mental health community while serving in the patrol administration.

A popular and often controversial sports media personality, North got his start in radio with the "NFL Handicap Show" on WSBC in 1990. Then, in 1992, he moved to The Score Sports Radio 820. In 1999, Mike began hosting "The Mike North Show", on WSCR. In addition to his radio work, North has hosted shows on WJYS TV channel 62,, WBBM-TV channel 2, and on CLTV. North’s honors include two Emmys and four Achievement in Radio Awards. Currently North is currently hosting a morning show with his long time partner, Dan Jiggetts on Comcast Sportsnet.

Mike Royko (September 19, 1932-1997) - One of Chicago's most storied newspapermen, Royko won the Pulitzer while writing for the Daily News. When that paper folded, he moved to the Chicago Sun-Times. Eventually, he ended up a fixture on page two of the Chicago Tribune.

Milton Hinton (June 23, 1910-2000) - Called by some the greatest jazz bassist ever, Hinton was one of the most recorded artists in history. His legacy includes thousands of recordings over the decades with the biggest names in music: Calloway, Gillespie, Goodman, Ellington, Armstrong, Coltrane, Crosby, Streisand, and McCartney. In addition to his music, Hinton is also remembered for his photographs. In his lifetime, he took over 60,000 photographs of the biggest musicians at various stages in their careers.

Minnie Riperton (November 8, 1947-1979)- Riperton was best known for her song "Lovin' You", but she sang with the popular group, the Gems and alongside artists like Bo Diddley and Muddy Waters. Her promising solo career was cut short when she died at the age of 31. Her daughter, Maya Rudolph, made a name for herself on Saturday Night Live.

Mirron “Mike” Alexandroff (1923-2001) was born on Chicago’s south side. During his 30 year career as President of Columbia College of Chicago, he increased enrollment from 200 to 7,000 students. Among its thousands of graduates are several famous CPS alum including: Bob Sirott, Mary Mitchell, Shecky Greene and Pat Sajak. Mr. Alexandroff received the Sydney R. Yates Advocacy award, the Clarence Darrow award for leading service in cause of social justice, a Distinguished Urban Fellow award from the Association of Urban Universities and an Outstanding Contributor to Latin American TV award from the Mexico National Association of Broadcasters.

Monique D. Davis - Educational administrator; born in Chicago; B.S., elementary education; M.S., worked on doctorate at Roosevelt University, guidance and counseling; received Dollars and Sense award for legislative excellence as one of the 100 best and brightest professionals in the country, 1990; listed in Who's Who in African American Biography, 1988-93. Davis's committees include Public Utilities; Financial Institutions; Elementary & Secondary Education (Vice-Chairperson); State Government Administration; Appropriations-General Service (Chairperson); Gaming; Juvenile Justice Reform; Appropriations-Higher Education; Disparities in Educational Achievement.

Morris Kaplan, founder of the Sealy Mattress Company is a graduate of Cleveland School. The Mayer and Morris Kaplan Family Foundation supports Cleveland School financially in its endeavor to produce successful productive members of society. With the help of Mr. Kaplan the school's auditorium has been refurbished to its original state and arts and academic programs have been enhanced.

Mr. T (May 21, 1952-present) - Born Laurence Tureaud, Mr. T has been a pop culture icon ever since his scene-stealing role Clubber Lang in Rocky III. His fame grew thanks to the TV show the A-Team, where he played B.A. (Bad Attitude). Mr. T has parlayed his showmanship into frequent guest appearances on television shows, commercials and the World Wrestling Federation.

Nat King Cole (March 17, 1919-1965) - Born Nathaniel Adams Coles, Cole was a popular singer, songwriter, pianist, and performer. He recorded 28 Gold Records and became the first African-American to host his own television show. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.

Nathan Rabin - Rabin is the Head Writer of The Onion’s entertainment section, The A.V. Club, and author of the popular column "My Year of Flops." He was a regular critic on AMC’s Movie Club With John Ridley in 2004-2005 and co-wrote the interview collection "Tenacity Of The Cockroach." His memoir, published in 2009, is titled "The Big Rewind: A Memoir Brought To You By Pop Culture"

Neal Gabler (Lane Tech, 1967) - Gabler is a political commentator and the author of three books, the most recent being Walt Disney: The Triumph of American Imagination. He was a regular on Fox News Watch and is a frequent contributor to the New York Times and the L.A. Times.

Neil G. Bluhm (1955 Graduate) - A member of the Forbes 400 list of wealthiest individuals, Bluhm is one of the co-founders and president of JMB Realty Corp and CEO of Walton Street Capital. He has been called the Midwest's answer to Donald Trump

Nelson Algren (March 28 1909-1981) - Algren, formerly Nelson Ahlgren Abraham, is a 1928 graduate of Hibbard High School and winner of the 1950 National Book Award for his novel The Man with the Golden Arm. Algren wrote extensively about Chicago's underclass, most notably in Never Come Morning, Chicago, City on the Make. The Chicago Tribune awards an annual prize for short fiction in Algren's name each year.

Nicholas R. Shuman (1921-2009) – Shuman began is award winning career in journalism as a copy boy for the Chicago Journal while attending Lane Tech. He went on to serve as a reporter, financial editor, national and foreign editor of the Daily News. When that paper folded, Shuman moved to the Sun-Times. Mr. Shuman finished his career teaching  journalism at Columbia College.

Oscar Brown Jr. (October 10, 1926-2005) - Not satisfied harnessing his creative energies in one or two areas, Brown achieved success in multiple arenas, though he may best be remembered for his first critical success Sin and Soul. He composed over 1000 songs, a dozen musicals, and made frequent television appearances. His life and work has been the subject of many programs.

Pat Sajak (October 26, 1946 - Present) - Born Partrick Sajdak, he is a three time Emmy winner and host of the number one syndicated television program The Wheel of Fortune. Sajak started his career while at Columbia College in Chicago when he worked as a night newsman for WEDC. In 1968, Sajak worked for Armed Forces Radio. In the 70’s Sajak spent time in Nashville working for WSM and then moved to Los Angeles to serve as the weatherman for KNBC. In 1981 he was approached by Merg Griffin to host Wheel of Fortune.

Patricia Roberts Harris (May 31, 1924-1985) - Harris was a trailblazer, becoming the first African American to serve as a delegate to the United Nations, the first African American woman to serve the nation as an Ambassador (to Luxemburg), the first African-American woman to become dean of a law school (Howard University), and the first African American woman to serve in a Presidential cabinet (HUD, HEW).

Paul A. Samuelson (1915 - 2009) - The first American to receive the Nobel Prize in economics (1970), Samuelson remains a giant in the field. A well known Keynesian economist, he was warded the John Bates Clark Award in 1947, for outstanding work by an economist under age forty and has been a pivotal figure in many fields including macroeconomics, welfare economics, Consumer theory, public finance theory, and international economics. Samuelson has a been a fixture at M.I.T. since 1940, and is a prolific writer most well known for his book Foundations of Economic Analysis and the influential text book Economics. Obituary (Obit) - NYTimes.com http://bit.ly/8prIEf

Peggy E Gustafson, 1967-present. Former Assistant State's Attorney in Kansas City, MO. Became Head Legal Counsel for the State Auditor of Missouri. Member of Legal Staff for Senator Claire McCaskill. Nominated for Inspector General of SBA by President Obama in June 2009. Confirmed for the position by the Senate September 2009.

Peter Jacobi - A highly regarded writer and teacher, Jacobi was an associate dean of the Medill School of Journalism, Northwestern University, before moving to Indiana University. In addition to teaching, Jacobi has been featured in The New York Times, The Chicago Daily News, and the Herald Times in Bloomington, IN. His books include Writing with style, and the News Story and the Feature.

Peter Lisagor (August 5, 1905 - 1976) - Every year the Chicago Headline Club chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists hands out awards for superior contributions to journalism, the Peter Lisagor Award. Lisagor served as the Chicago Daily News' Washington bureau chief from 1959 to 1976. His syndicated column and appearances on "Meet the Press," "Face the Nation" and "Washington Week in Review" earned him a national audience. A Nieman Fellow, Lisagor's honors included the Newspaper Guild's Page One award, the George Foster Peabody Broadcasting award, the William Allen White Award and Edward Weintal Prize for diplomatic reporting.

Phil Cavaretta (July 19, 1916-Present) - Cavaretta won the 1945 National League MVP as a member of the Chicago Cubs team that made it to the Championships before losing to Detroit in seven games.

Phillip Miller Crane (November 3, 1930 – present) served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1969 to 2005. He received his PhD in history in 1961 from Indiana University where he later served on the faculty.

Philip Revzin is a Senior Editor at St. Martin’s Press, one of the largest book publishers in the United States. Prior to joining St. Martin’s Press Mr. Revzin worked at the Wall Street Journal for over 30 years. While still a college student he began his career as a journalist, quickly working his way up from summer intern to London Bureau Chief of the Wall Street Journal. In 1991 Phil Revzin became Editor of the Wall Street Journal Europe. For several years he lived in Hong Kong where he was the Editor and Publisher of Far Eastern Economic Review and The Wall Street Journal Asia. Mr. Revzin holds a bachelor's degree in English from Stanford University and a master's degree in English from Columbia University.

Phyllis A. Whitney (September 9, 1903-2008) - In 1988 The Mystery Writers of America honored Whitney with their Grand Master award for lifetime achievement. A fitting tribute to Whitney who authored over 70 books during her career and was called The Queen of American Gothics by the New York Times. Whitney, who lived to be 104, had her last book published at the age of 94. Whitney also served as the Chicago Sun's children's book editor from 1942-1946.

Quentin L. Richardson (April 13, 1980 - present), nicknamed “Q”, is the youngest of five children. He led Whitney Young High School to a 30-1 record and Chicago Public League Championship and Illinois Class AA state championship in 1997-98. Richardson was enrolled in College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at DePaul University. He has played in the NBA for the Los Angeles Clippers and the Phoenix Suns. He is currently a Forward/Guard for the New York Knicks.

Quincy Jones (March 14, 1933-present) - 79 Grammy nominations, 27 wins. 7 Oscar Nominations. 1 Emmy, and 1 Kennedy Center Honor. As a prolific and unparalleled musician, song writer, composer, and producer, Quincy Jones is arguably the most influential musician of the last 100 years.

Ral Donner (February 10, 1943-1984)- Donner enjoyed success with a string of hits in the late 50's early 60's, the biggest one being "You Don't Know What You've Got (Until You Lose It) which reached #4 on the charts. Singing in a style that was often compared to Elvis, Donner took advantage of the comparisons, even doing voice over on a film about Elvis' life.

Ralph D Erickson (June 25, 1922-2006) graduated from Lane in 1940 and went on to found PADI, an international association of scuba diving instructors which has trained the most scuba divers in the United States. Ralph attended USC on a swimming scholarship after being a member of state championship swimming teams at Lane. He enlisted in the Army Rangers during WWII and was a parachute instructor. He fought in the Battle of Remagen and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his services. Ralph graduated from Northwestern University after the war and coached swimming and water polo at Loyola University of Chicago for 20 years. Erickson was inducted into the International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame in 2007.

Ramonski Luv - Currently hosting the Real Show with CPS alum Joe Soto on V103, Luv is a twenty four year veteran of the Chicago radio scene. One boasts the distinction of having hosted Rap Down, the first show in Chicago to feature rap.

Ramsey Lewis (May 27, 1935-present) - One of the most celebrated jazz musicians in world, Lewis has recorded over 80 albums, including 8 Gold Records, and many of them with the Ramsey Lewis Trio. He won 3 Grammys for the songs Wade In The Water, Hang On Sloopy, and The In Crowd. In addition to his touring and charitable works, Lewis hosts the nationally syndicated Ramsey Lewis Morning Show on over 60 radio stations. In 2006, Lewis was also the host of a 13-episode television special entitled Legends of Jazz.

Redd Foxx was born John Elroy Sanford (December 9, 1922-1991) - Foxx was a groundbreaking comedian in his day. His comedy recordings and guest star turns led to his own sitcom in 1971, Sanford and Son. His work earned him 3 Emmy nominations and 4 Golden Globe nominations. He won the 1973 Golden Globe for best TV actor in a comedy.

Rev. Milton Brunson (June 8, 1929-1997) - Founder and leader of the Thompson Community Singers, a world famous gospel choir, Brunson was also an ordained minister and leader of the Christ Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago. With the Thompson Singers, Brunson would perform at Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theatre. The choir also won a Grammy in 1996 for "Through God's Eyes." Their song "There is Hope" was #1 on the gospel charts for four months. In honor of his civic leadership, Milton Brunson Elementary School opened on April 21, 1999.

Richard Atwater (1892-1948) - Born Frederick M. Atwater, Atwater wrote columns for the Chicago Evening Post and the Chicago Daily News. In addition, he was a respected author and editor. He's probably best remembered for his Newberry Honor winning book, Mr. Popper's Penguins. Unfortunately, Atwater had a stroke after starting the book and it may never have come to fruition if not for his wife Florence who finished the story and shares writing credit.

Richard Hunt (September 12, 1935-present) - One of the world's most critically acclaimed sculptors, Hunt's influence on the art world is as much a result of his work outside the studio as it is his groundbreaking pieces. He served on the first National Council of the Arts, a forerunner of the NEA, the National Board of Directors of the Smithsonian Institute and the American Academy of Arts & Letters. Hunt's pieces are exhibited at the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, The Hirschhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Gallery and the National Museum of American Art in Washington, D.C., The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Modern Art in New York, among others.

Richard Melman - Melman oversees one of the most popular and profitable restaurant businesses in the world. He began his career working for the family restaurant, however, when his father refused to let him enter the business, Melman struck out on his own starting R.J. Grunts, now a venerable Chicago institution. Other successes include Shaw's Crab House, Big Bowl, Wildfire, and Maggiano's. Preferring to work collaboratively, Melman currently has 37 business partners and 70 restaurants nationwide.

Richard Pegue (July 29, 1944 - 2009) - A staple of Chicago Radio, Pegue started his career performing and writing songs. In 1968, he became the music director at WVON then moved to WOPA and WGCI. After brief stops elsewhere, Pegue returned to WGCI , moving it in the direction of oldies where he enjoyed a thirteen year run. Today, Pegue can be heard back at WVON. Chicago named a street after Pegue in recognition of his contributions to his hometown.

Richard Steele (January 6, 1942 - Present) - Born Richard Slaughter, Steele is host of Chicago Public Radios's award-winning program Eight Forty-Eight. Other programs on WBEZ include The Richard Steele Show, A Richard Steele Friday, Page Two and Performance Space. A journeyman in Chicago radio, Steele has also worked for  WVAZ 102.7 FM, WGCI 1390 AM, WBMX 102.7 and WVON 1450 AM, and WGRT (950 AM) AM, and WJPC 950 AM. Steele is vice president of the local AFTRA board and a board member of the Chicago Association of Black Journalists. In addition to Radio, Steele is a frequent contributer to WTTW, especially on the local arts scene.

Richard T. Bradley (May 18, 1955 - present) - Bradley has served as the IL 40th District State Representative since 1997. His resume includes time as the Assistant General Superintendent for Department of Streets and Sanitation; before that, Richards earned his B.A. in political science at Concordia Teachers College. He is a member of the Logan Square Lions Club, Portage Park Chamber of Commerce, Independence Park Library, and Friends of the Library.

Richard W. Mies (May 30, 1944-Present) - Admiral Mies completed a distinguished 35-year career in the US Navy.  He commanded US Strategic Command for four years prior to retirement.  As Commander in Chief, he was directly responsible for the command and control of the Nation’s strategic nuclear forces supporting the national security objective of strategic deterrence.

Admiral Mies has a unique breadth and depth of operational and policy experience in undersea and strategic warfare.  He has held both US and Allied commands at senior military levels.  After completing training for submarine duty, he served on two nuclear attack submarines and a ballistic missile submarine before commanding the nuclear attack submarine, USS SEA DEVIL.  He subsequently served in a wide range of distinctive command positions including Commander Submarine Development Squadron TWELVE, Commander, Submarine Group EIGHT and Commander, Allied Submarines, Mediterranean, and Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet and Commander, Submarine Allied Command, Atlantic.

His staff positions included duty on the staff of Commander in Chief, U. S. Atlantic Fleet, Executive Assistant to the Assistant Chief of Naval Operations (Undersea Warfare), Chief of Staff to Commander Submarine Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet, and Director Strategic Target Plans and Deputy Director Plans and Policy on the staff of Commander in Chief, U. S. Strategic Command.

Admiral Mies is one of a few flag officers to complete qualification as both a submariner and naval aviation observer.  In addition to unit and service awards, his decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal (two awards), Legion of Merit (four awards), National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy Achievement Medal, and Secretary of Energy Gold Medal.

Admiral Mies is a native of Chicago, Illinois.  A distinguished scholar and athlete, he graduated first in his class with highest honors from the U. S. Naval Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree with majors in mechanical engineering and mathematics.  An intercollegiate wrestling champion and a lightweight football player, he was awarded the Thompson Trophy for contributing the most to the promotion of athletics at the Naval Academy.  He has completed post-graduate education at Oxford University, England, the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and Harvard University.  He holds a Masters degree in government administration and international relations; he also holds an Honorary Doctorate of Law degree from the University of Nebraska.  His professional education includes the Flag Officers’ Capstone course, the program for Senior Executives in National and International Security at Harvard University, and the Joint Flag Officer Warfighting course.

Following retirement from the Navy, Admiral Mies served as a Senior Vice President and Deputy Group President of Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) and as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hicks and Associates, Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of SAIC. He presently serves as the CEO and President of The Mies Group, LTD.  Admiral Mies serves as the Chairman of the Department of Defense Threat Reduction Advisory Committee, the Chairman of the Board of the Navy Mutual Aid Association and the Naval Submarine League, a member of the Committee on International Security and Arms Control of the National Academy of Sciences, a member of the Board of Governors of Los Alamos National Laboratory and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and a member of the Board of Directors of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company, McDermott International, and Exelon Corporation.  He also serves on numerous advisory boards.  

Rick Kogan, the host of WGN's Sunday Papers with Rick Kogan is the son of legendary newspaperman and author Herman Kogan. He wrote his first story for the Sun-Times at 16. He was later on the staff of the Chicago Daily News and the Sun-Times. There he began a weekly column on the city's night club scene, later collected in a book, Dr. Night Life's Chicago. In the 1980s, he joined the Chicago Tribune where he was TV critic for five years and later the editor of Tempo, the paper's daily feature section. He is now a senior writer and Sidewalks columnist for the paper's Sunday magazine, a frequent guest on national radio and television shows and creator/host of The Sunday Papers. He has written eight books, including, in collaboration with his father, Yesterday's Chicago. His latest book, America's Mom: The Life, Lessons and Legacy of Ann Landers, a personal portrait of his friend and colleague, was published in the fall of 2003 by William Morrow.

Rickie Lee Jones (November 8, 1954-present) - Jones is one of the most repsected vocalists of her time. After early success in 1979 with songs like Chuck E's in Love, and winning a Grammy for Best New Artist, Rickie Lee expanded into other musical styles and earned another Grammy in 1989 for Best Vocal Jazz Performance. VH1 ranked Jones #30 on their list of Women Rock and Rollers.